New Milwaukee community hub; artists sought for mural project

Milwaukee Alderman Lamont Westmoreland is encouraging artists to apply to paint a mural on a future community hub on Milwaukee’s near northwest side.

What we know:

Darick Spears, owner of Darick Books Café Complex at 76th and Capitol, is hiring a mural painter to create large-scale art on the side of the 21,000-square-foot building.

The property, vacant since 2011, is being redeveloped into a multipurpose facility for community engagement and entrepreneurial growth. Plans include a co-working space, laundromat, and gym on the first floor, and Darick Books Café, book sales and printing services on the second.

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Milwaukee northside bookstore, community space planned

The Milwaukee Common Council approved the sale of a city-owned building that will serve as a multipurpose facility.

Renovations represent nearly a $1 million investment, with the facility expected to open within 18 months.

What they're saying:

"Whoever does the mural will have their work exposed to thousands of commuters daily and will be working with an incredible author, bookseller and entrepreneur [Mr. Spears]," Westmoreland said.

Westmoreland said Spears is looking for "a huge mural" to showcase outside the facility. Interested artists can find details and apply at this link.

The Source: Milwaukee Ald. Lamont Westmoreland provided information and FOX6 previously covered the planned space.

MilwaukeeNews