Bucks partnership with MIAD a slam dunk for Black History Month
Vedale Hill and Brandon Luster, 2024.
When the Milwaukee Bucks chose Black Excellence in the Arts as the theme for their Black History Month game in February, it was natural to continue their ongoing partnerships with the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) by reaching out to the college for a live art piece to be created at Fiserv Forum.
MIAD junior Brandon Luster ’25 (Fine Art + New Studio Practice) joined Vedale Hill ’11, MIAD alum, adjunct faculty and Milwaukee arts educator and advocate, to collaborate on Hoop Dreams, part of Hill’s ongoing series of work by that name. The piece is inspired by the tenacious spirit of innovation to overcome obstacles.
When asked by the Bucks at the game what it’s like to share an art experience with fans, Luster said, “It’s kind of nerve wracking but it’s fun because you get to participate with the community around you in a way ‘cause people get to see, you get to go back and forth… I really like it.”
Hill added,” It’s always great to work with a student outside of the classroom, so they can see how the profession acts outside the walls…. So it was great for him, great for me – the energy he has is great, the talent is amazing.”
Hill is donating the piece created at the February 8 game for auction at MIAD’s Creative Fusion Scholarship gala on May 4, 2024.
Watch the Hoop Dreams Instagram video. Read more about Vedale Hill and his role in Milwaukee’s HomeWorks: Bronzeville project.
News
Independence First and MIAD students produce adaptive clothing
Students in a junior-level Fashion and Apparel Design class at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) collaborated with Independence First to design adaptive clothing. Two Independence First employees worked closely with MIAD students on customized outfits specific to their needs and preferences.
‘GQ Rebranded’ series is a hit for MIAD alum’s new studio
When Justin Thomas Kay ’04 (Communication Design) opened his own studio, JTK Studio, Inc., in New York City early this year, he hoped that his work “would contribute positively to helping to make things look nicer and more enjoyable and speak honestly to people broadly.” The new GQ Sports series “GQ Rebranded” turned out to be a good fit to do just that.
MIAD student support system receives national SMILE Award
Choose Mental Health, the national voice for children’s mental health, named the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) the 2024 SMILE Award–Organization Winner for the college’s commitment to promoting mental health and well-being among its students.
Senior’s passion for Illustration and Natural Sciences thrives at MIAD
Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) senior Lilly Zbiegien’s two passions – Illustration and Natural Sciences – flourished at an early age and have continued through college. Recently Zbiegien presented her Natural Science Independent Study research, “Junkyard Nests,” showing not only the impact of plastic pollution on birds, but also her skill in portraying the environment through Illustration.
Reducing food insecurity at MIAD’s People’s Pantry
Students, staff and faculty at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) are addressing short-term food insecurity on campus with direct action. One of the college’s newest resources, the People’s Pantry, provides free food for anyone in the MIAD community who needs a meal, no questions asked.