“Art intersects with everything we do as human beings.”
— Derrick Cainion, President & CEO of Art Intersection MKE
Our commitment to environmental sustainability led us to partner with the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District and Greenprint Partners to install green infrastructure on our property through the Fresh Coast Green Communities program.
Green infrastructure uses plants and soil to manage stormwater. At our Outdoor Gallery, this system captures more than 68,000 gallons of water every time there is a major storm. That means less water entering Milwaukee’s sewer system, which helps prevent sewer overflows that can flood basements and carry pollution into Lake Michigan. By reducing the risk of these overflows, our project helps protect Lake Michigan and supports a healthier environment for our community.
What we did.
We introduced several green infrastructure elements: a bioretention basin, native plants, stormwater trees and a rainwater harvesting system.
● Bioretention basin: The landscaped depression on the eastern side of the Outdoor Gallery will use plants and soil to capture and treat stormwater. We placed sculptures throughout the basin to connect art and nature. When the basin fills up, it looks like our sculptures are floating on top of the water!
● Rainwater harvesting system: This system will collect stormwater from the future solar pavilion’s roof, providing a sustainable water source for our gardens.
● Native plants: Native plants are integrated throughout the site. They thrive in our local climate, have deep roots that help water soak into the ground, are tolerant to both drought and flooding, and support pollinators.
● Stormwater trees: Thirty-seven stormwater trees were planted to absorb water into the ground or hold it on their leaves and branches until it evaporates.
Embracing Sustainability through our Green Infrastructure Project
Welcome to a greener future at Art Intersection MKE!
At Art Intersection MKE, we believe art and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. We are deeply committed to creating a space that inspires connection to art, to one another, and to the natural world. We prioritize sustainability to set an example for how community spaces can support both people and the planet.
Why we did it.
Art Intersection MKE’s Founder, President and CEO Derrick Cainion envisions the site’s green space as an outdoor oasis for the Washington Park neighborhood. Art Intersection MKE uses green infrastructure to advance environmental justice and to serve as a model for sustainable development.
Art is woven throughout the landscape in the form of sculptures, murals, and interactive installations. This integration of creativity and sustainability creates a dynamic and engaging environment for all to explore and enjoy.
Rendering Courtesy of KCB Buildings, LLC
Learn more.
Want to learn more about our green infrastructure features?
Contact Us for more information or to schedule a site visit.