MIAD alum named designated artist for ABCD gala event

Cheryl Klein, ABCD Gala, 2024. Photo courtesy of ABCD Gala and GEM Photo. 

Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) alum and employee Cheryl Klein ’98 (Drawing) was selected as the designated artist for the After Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD) 25th anniversary gala on June 15, 2024.

Founded by Melodie Wilson Oldenburg with support from cancer physical therapist Dr. Leslie Waltke, ABCD provides one-to-one emotional support to patients diagnosed with breast cancer through a volunteer mentorship program.

“I reached out to [the ABCD gala] because my physical therapist Dr. Leslie Waltke is one of the key people who started it and she’s really carried it forward,” explains Klein. During the gala event, Klein created a painting which was auctioned off along with another of her paintings.

Klein has a personal connection to ABCD’s mission. “As a person who’s going through breast cancer myself, to meet different people and learn how they’ve overcome it and helped other people, other organizations … it helps other people,” she explains.

“It’s a seascape and a naturescape,” explains Klein of her paintings. “One is more dramatic and the other is more peaceful.” As part of an arts package including a stay at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, Klein’s two paintings were sold to two nurse navigators at the auction.

Klein’s artistic background includes everything from painting and drawing to photography and sculpture. She even dabbled in furniture making during her time at MIAD.

Reflecting on the event, Klein says she wants to continue giving back to organizations who have supported her and people like her. “I hope to do more events like this and hope to support more people who are going through this,” she says. “I’m just glad I had the chance to give back.”

Learn more about ABCD and explore MIAD’s Fine Art + New Studio Practice major!