The Heights Dream Library
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The Heights Dream Library is a mural by artist Fred Kaems featuring imaginary books on shelves that was painted in July/August 2020 on the east-facing wall of 5700 W. Vliet St. on Milwaukee's west side. Through colorful portrayal of imaginary books, it promotes both adult and children’s literacy, provide a connection to libraries and support neighborhood involvement.
The project is sponsored by the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association and is supported in part by a grant from the Milwaukee Arts Board. In November 2020, the planning committee donated the remaining funds from the project to the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation, with the intent that it be used to support public art projects connected to the library. Thanks to everyone who contributed money, book titles, encouragement and fun comments throughout the year! For updated information, find us on Facebook. |
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About the Heights Dream Library
- Sponsor: Washington Heights Neighborhood Association.
- Supporter: The project is supported in part by a grant from the Milwaukee Arts Board
- Artist: Fred Kaems
- In-Kind Donations:
- Doug Peterson Painting, LLC
- Hallman-Lindsey, Mequon
- Quorum Architects
- Steering Committee (all Washington Heights residents):
- Building Owners: Dan Schley and Barb Haig
- Project Manager: Melissa Muller
- WHNA Liaison: Jane Konkel
Why are you undertaking this project?
The Heights Dream Library is intended to be a visual reminder that ideas sparked by dreams can change the person, the neighborhood and the world.
Who is the artist?
Fred Kaems is a multi-disciplinary artist and Washington Heights resident. He works as a painter, muralist, designer and maker, and his work is in private collections around the country. He has created works for scores of large-scale clients. For more information, see http://fredkaems.com/.
What is the project financing?
How did people support the project?
Where can I find more information?
The Heights Dream Library is intended to be a visual reminder that ideas sparked by dreams can change the person, the neighborhood and the world.
Who is the artist?
Fred Kaems is a multi-disciplinary artist and Washington Heights resident. He works as a painter, muralist, designer and maker, and his work is in private collections around the country. He has created works for scores of large-scale clients. For more information, see http://fredkaems.com/.
What is the project financing?
- The project is estimated at $11,000 for materials, preparation, lift rental and artist fees.
- The Milwaukee Arts Board has provided a Public Art New Work award of $5,000 that must be matched by private fundraising.
- The remainder of the funds is being raised through donations.
How did people support the project?
- Book Sponsors – For a minimum contribution of $500, several donors choose an imaginary book title and real or imaginary author. Some were in honor of parents; some in gratitude for others.
- General Funding – More than 100 people donated small to large amounts via Facebook.
- Notes:
- Money raised is being reported to the Milwaukee Arts Board.
- All funds raised above the project costs will be donated to the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation.
Where can I find more information?
- Facebook: https://bit.ly/HDLface
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heightsdreamlibrary/
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