This summer, Downtown Racine will once again transform into an open-air art gallery as the Downtown Racine Corporation (DRC) celebrates the 25th anniversary of its annual Public Art Project. From Memorial Day weekend through mid-September, the downtown streetscape will feature vibrant, oversized “Greetings from Racine” postcards—fabricated in wood and metal—creating an immersive, interactive art experience that celebrates creativity, community, and place.
As part of this milestone year, the Downtown Racine Corporation is issuing an official Call for Artists and is seeking 25 artists to bring these giant postcards to life. The postcard format offers artists the ultimate blank canvas to creatively interpret Racine’s iconic landmarks, neighborhoods, history, and culture. The installations are designed to be highly interactive—inviting exploration, encouraging selfies, and engaging visitors of all ages.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 25 years of continuous public art in Downtown Racine,” said Kelly Kruse, Executive Director of the Downtown Racine Corporation. “This year’s postcard theme creates a unique opportunity for artists to work at a large scale while telling Racine’s story. These pieces become interactive destinations—sparking creativity, encouraging people to explore downtown, and capturing moments through photography and social media—before ultimately finding new homes through our end-of-season art auction.”
Selected artists will collaborate with fabricators from Gateway Technical College’s Welding and Woodworking Programs, whose students will construct the postcard structures. Wood was generously provided by Bliffert Lumbar. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to public art, workforce development, and experiential learning, while giving artists a professionally fabricated foundation for their work.
“Our welding and woodworking students are honored to be part of this landmark public art project,” said Professor Kyle Worzala of Gateway Technical College. “This collaboration allows students to apply their skills in a real-world setting while contributing something meaningful to the community. It builds professionalism, pride, and confidence—and we hope it inspires future students to explore the trades and the power of creative collaboration.”
Since its inception, the Downtown Racine Public Art Project has become a beloved summer tradition—drawing residents and visitors downtown to experience art in unexpected places. The 25th anniversary installation promises to elevate the streetscape once again through bold visual storytelling, community pride, and countless photo-worthy moments.
Call for Artists – Application Information
The Downtown Racine Corporation is seeking 25 artists to participate in the 2026 Public Art Project.
- Application Deadline: March 15, 2026
- How to Apply: Applications are available at www.racinedowntown.com or in person at the Downtown Racine Corporation office, 425 Main Street, Racine, WI
Artists of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
DOWNTOWN RACINE CORPORATION: Downtown Racine Corporation, a non-profit whose mission is to foster economic, social, and cultural diversity by stimulating business development, programming events, and marketing downtown to the community, developers, and tourists.