Rosie the Riveter’s stirring “We Can Do It” and Uncle Sam’s accusatory “I Want You” are among the most iconic images in the history of the American military. France too has a tradition of patriotic propaganda meant to ready the public for the sorrows and deprivations of war. In “Art For The Cause: French Posters From The First World War,” the Charles Allis Art Museum has collected 15 posters whose tragic character reflects the horrors of the Great War, in which tanks, poison gas and machine guns made their first appearance on the battlefield.
For all their solemnity, the posters remain stirring works of art that came from the pens of celebrated French artists such as Francisque Poulbot and Steinlen. The posters were collected by Harriet Earling Fitch: a central player in the Milwaukee chapter of the Fatherless Children of France and the Foster Mothers of America. Both philanthropic organizations ministered to the millions of children orphaned by World War I. For her work Fitch was granted the French Legion of Honor, which will be on display along with the posters. The exhibit opens with a reception on Friday, March 27 from 6-8:30 p.m., and will be on display through July 12.
“Byzantium (the Fallen Empire)”
Hot Water Wherehouse
818 S. Water St.
The Byzantine Empire stood for approximately 1,000 years. The business of Milwaukee designer Silversärk has stood for 10 years and is marking the occasion with “Byzantium (the Fallen Empire)” on Friday, March 27. The garments evoke vintage saloon wear with a nod to modern sexual bravado, which is appropriate considering she designs not just for the runway but also for cosplay, dance and erotic ends. The show opens with spoken word artist Nathan J. Reid, who will poetize the history of the Byzantine Empire. The evening also promises a silent auction of items donated by local artists, the proceeds of which will benefit Wisconsin-based non-profit Autism Solution Pieces. General admission is $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Doors open at 8 p.m.
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“What’s Happening” in Art & Design at Kenilworth Open Studios
Kenilworth Square East
1925 E. Kenilworth Place
UW-Milwaukee’s Peck School of the Arts has a Department of Film that is rated one of the 20 best in the world. At Kenilworth Open Studios on Saturday, April 18, the department is opening its doors and sharing its wisdom. Visitors can try their hand at stop motion animation, project their own handmade films, watch equipment demonstrations and learn the tricks of the sound-engineering trade. Kenilworth Open Studios invites Milwaukee to experience the award-winning work of UWM graduate students and faculty.
