*Renderings subject to change
Celebrating the Spirit of Commission Row
The Art
"Portal to the Past" is a landmark public art initiative to preserve the Lo Duca Bros ghost sign and transform the otherwise unadorned north wall of Commission House into a permanent cultural anchor. This large-scale mural will serve as a visual gateway to the historic Third Ward connecting our contemporary community with the vibrant produce market vendors, the wine and musical instruments of the LoDuca era, and the resilient spirit that rebuilt this district after the Great Milwaukee Fire of 1892.
A Dual-Perspective Mural Designed to Engage
Utilizing the unique placement of Commission House, John’s design offers two distinct viewing experiences.
The Skyline
A massive accordion and towering banana trees rise above I-794, celebrating Milwaukee’s polka heritage and the Lo Duca Bros legacy on a grand, city-wide scale.
The Street Level
Below, the mural opens a "portal" to the bustling historic Commission Row market. Neighbors can pose with oversized grapes, stand beneath a whimsical 20-foot kitty guarding the "River Rats." Lead donors may
even find a nod to their own names and legacies etched into the hand-painted produce crates that anchor the scene.
The Inspiration
Through a sophisticated palette of historic sepia tones, punctuated by pops of teal, muted greens, and rich splashes of red wine, the mural weaves the building’s industrial past into a modern reflection of the Third Ward’s history.
This installation ensures the story of the makers, merchants, and music that built Milwaukee remains an indelible part of our skyline.
Invest in the Heart of the Third Ward
Portal to the Past is more than a mural; it is a permanent tribute to Milwaukee's heritage. Your tax-deductible contribution through our fiscal sponsor directly funds the artistry and preservation efforts at the historic Commission House.
You must apply your donation to Commission House Mural Project.