Programs

Creative Workforce Program

The Creative Workforce Program was an engagement and development program to put Wisconsin’s creative workers to work during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing much-needed short-term employment opportunities.

Made possible with support from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and other public/private funders.

The Creative Workforce Program is not seeking proposals at this time.

 

How it Works

Aligned with WEDC’s “We’re All In” public health and support initiative in 2020, the program connects community development organizations and local government agencies with self-employed creative workers to design and complete cultural and creative projects that advance civic pride, safety and community. The Creative Workforce Program capitalizes on the artistry and entrepreneurship of the state’s currently under-employed creative workers to aid in the recovery, unity, and healing of Wisconsin’s economy and communities, large and small.

Upon completion of the program, Create Wisconsin will submit a report on this program to Gov. Evers, the State Legislature, WEDC, and other stakeholders to provide information on best practices, models, lessons learned, and recommendations for the future.

Participating Communities

Each community focused on a theme that is relevant and meaningful to their constituents, in a variety of art and performance mediums.

  • Ashland and Bayfield Counties | Chequamegon Bay Arts Council (Projects: Garland City Consort performances and public art projects)

  • Eau Claire | Eau Claire Public Arts Council & Pablo Center at the Confluence (Project: Public Art)

  • Green Bay | Mosaic Arts, Inc. (Project: Music Education in Green Bay Public Schools)

  • Kenosha | Partners & Projects TBA 

  • La Crosse | Pump House Regional Arts Center (Project: sculpture by local artist Mike Martino)

  • Madison |  Madison Arts Commission (Project: Greater Madison Music City)

  • Milwaukee | Imagine MKE (Project: Road of Democracy)

  • Portage County | CREATE Portage County (Project: Paint the County!)

  • Rhinelander  | Artstart Rhinelander (Project: TBA)

  • Virocqua | Virocqua Chamber Main Street (Project: See Virocqua)