Interactive art and poetry exhibit inspired by Milwaukee Poet Laureate Shelly Conley.
Part I
About this event
"Painted Words. Spoken Images." is a dynamic exhibit that merges the worlds of poetry and visual art. Hosted at the Mitchell Street Branch Library, this project showcases the creative synergy between community members and Milwaukee Poet Laureate Shelly Conley. Visitors can engage with the Word Wall, featuring poems crafted from Conley’s word pool and visually brought to life by Arts @ Large youth.
The exhibit, which debuted during Black History Month 2026, continues to captivate with its innovative use of space, incorporating stands, photo boards, and interactive elements. It’s a celebration of the transformative power of art and poetry, inviting visitors to reflect and connect through creative expression.
From the organizer
Painted Words & Spoken Images is a collaborative, community-driven project that highlights the intersection of art, culture, community, and collaboration. The project began with Milwaukee Poet Laureate Shelly Conley creating a word pool drawn from three of her original poems. At Bronzeville Fest 2025, community members used this word pool to create original poems on the Word Wall through word tiles, hand-painted by Arts @ Large youth. The exhibit debuted in Milwaukee during Black History Month 2026, and continues to shine at Mitchell Street Branch Library in honor of National Poetry month. Rather than relying solely on traditional wall space, the exhibit may use stands, photo boards, and interactive elements to engage visitors. It will highlight the transformative and communal power of poetry and art in conversation with one another.
Getting in
Drop in anytime — no commitment needed
Who'll Be There
Local community members, teens, older adults, and individuals interested in arts and culture, likely a mix of casual attendees and those actively engaged in the arts scene.
Part II · The feel
The details organizers don't always put in the description — pulled from the room, the crowd, and what people remember afterward.
Library rules. Whispers and a calm body — this is not a talking-out-loud room.
Low-key. You can show up alone, sit back, and receive. No pressure to mingle or perform.
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