An Evening in Bloom for the Arts
On June 6, hundreds of artists, educators, students, families, advocates, and supporters gathered in the Wilson Center’s garden for The Big Event: An Evening in Bloom for the Arts, a celebration of the people and programs that make the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts a vibrant part of Southeast Wisconsin.
Set against a beautiful summer evening, The Big Event brought the Wilson Center’s multidisciplinary mission to life through music, theater, visual art, education and more. Guests explored artistic vignettes throughout the building and garden, creating an evening filled with creativity, connection and discovery.
The evening featured a performance by Philip Daniel, a Ploch Gallery artist tour with Jessica Meuninck-Ganger, mission-based performances by Elmbrook School District theater students and live fashion illustration by Steph Hagens Art. Guests also enjoyed music from a quartet of Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra musicians, a performance by Crook & Co., magic from Hyatt’s Magic and living statues by Pantaloon Productions. Thank you to Sandy Maxx for serving as emcee for the evening, and Dan Pronley who brought his energy and expertise as auctioneer.
The Big Event also celebrated three individuals and organizations whose leadership and commitment to the arts have made a meaningful impact on our community:
2026 EDDY Award: Andy Nunemaker — Recognized for his extraordinary generosity and lifelong commitment to arts advocacy. Through more than two decades of service with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and his leadership as Board Chair of the Milwaukee Art Museum, Andy has helped strengthen the cultural life of our community.
2026 Education Excellence Award: Pink Umbrella Theater Company — Honored for its dedication to creating an inclusive platform that amplifies the voices and talents of artists living with disabilities. The award was accepted by actor Jack Allen.
2026 Impact Award: Deanna Tillisch — Recognized for her longstanding commitment to advancing the arts throughout Southeast Wisconsin and the lasting legacy she has created through her leadership and advocacy.
Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended and supported The Big Event, more than $410,000 was raised to support the Wilson Center’s mission and invest in the future of the arts.
The evening was a joyful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together around creativity, connection and opportunity. We are grateful to everyone who helped make The Big Event 2026 a memorable celebration—and to the artists, students, educators, supporters and partners who continue to make the Wilson Center a place where people can connect, learn and be inspired.
See more photos from the evening here.
Want to help support the Wilson Center and its mission? Make a donation today.
Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts exists to enrich lives and strengthen community by curating meaningful opportunities for people to connect, learn, and be inspired through the arts. Rooted in the belief that creativity is essential to a vibrant and connected community, the Wilson Center brings together artists, students, and audiences of all ages to share experiences that spark curiosity, conversation, and joy.
The Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization supported by the generosity of our community.