Feature image: L to R: Cassandra Xiong, Jade Pergl, Amanda Langer, Matthew Braunginn, R-Lo, and Brianna Stehling Santacruz. Photo: Artdose Magazine.
By Frank Juárez
On May 3, artists Matthew Braunginn, Amanda Langer, Jade Pergl, Brianna Stehling Santacruz, and Cassandra Xiong met for the first time in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. This visit was the second part of this emerging artists program. The morning began with a brief introduction to the day led by Lisa DiPuma González, Manager of Education Initiatives, at the Art Preserve, a 56,000 square foot facility that consists of artist built environments. After the tour, the group headed to the John Michael Kohler Arts Center to do a site visit of where they will be curating their space during the Midsummer Festival of the Arts, July 18-19, 2026.
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After a delicious lunch prepared by the JMKAC Cafe, we headed to the Matrix to meet Charles O’Connell, preparator, to discuss logistics. Afterwards, the artists and R-Lo, EAP Mentor, gathered to envision how this space will be curated to meet their artistic needs. Each artist bringing creative and unique ideas to the table.
I am thrilled that Alexis Ortiz, from JMKAC, will be with us through the entire program.
About John Michael Kohler Arts Center
The John Michael Kohler Arts Center (JMKAC), located north of Milwaukee in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, is known for promoting the understanding and appreciation of the work of self-taught and contemporary artists through exhibitions and commissioned works of art.
Founded in 1967, JMKAC has preserved, studied, and exhibited artist-built environments, earning a worldwide reputation. Art environments involve an individual significantly transforming their surroundings into an exceptional, multifaceted work of art.
The Arts Center’s downtown Sheboygan facility includes eight galleries, two performance spaces, a café, a museum shop, and a drop-in art-making studio. Among its program offerings are community arts projects; artist residencies; presentations of dance, film, and music; a free weekly summer concert series; classes and workshops; an onsite arts-based preschool; and approximately twelve original exhibitions of the work of self-taught and contemporary artists annually. JMKAC also administers the renowned Arts/Industry residency program, which is hosted by Kohler Co.
Source: jmkac.org
About Artdose Magazine
Founded in 2013, Artdose magazine LLC is an independent print and digital art magazine based in Wisconsin, committed to connecting and supporting the visual arts in the Midwest. Published by Frank Juárez, the magazine is premised on the belief that we all share common goals of engaging, educating, and offering diverse art experiences to our audience and readership.
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