A Story Painted, and Created, by Many Hands
Curiosity is where it begins. Not with a sketch or a color palette, but with a question: what does this place mean to the people who bring it to life every day? For Tia Richardson, the answer isn’t something she imposes, it’s something she uncovers.
Drawn to a new space in the heart of Milwaukee, Richardson approached the project not as an insider, but as a listener. She gathered 14 staff members from across the organization—different roles, departments and perspectives—and asked them to reflect on what makes the Wisconsin Center District feel like home.
What emerged was something deeper than a single idea: a shared identity shaped by the people behind the work and the mindset that drives them forward—Bold. Proud. Experience-obsessed. That collective vision became Driving Force for Community, a mural created not just for staff, but with them.
“The community painting process is an experience that increases pride,” Richardson said. “People feel more connected to the art when they’re part of it. It’s not just me as the artist but the community having a chance to feel a sense of greatness and power in themselves to contribute towards something meaningful.”
That process is at the core of Richardson’s practice. Her work spans collaborations with schools, nonprofits, neighborhood organizations, business districts and local government, each project grounded in participation and trust. Across more than 60 collaborative works, her themes remain consistent with unity, cultural appreciation, education, empowerment and care.
Whether working with K–12 students or community leaders, Richardson centers voices that are often overlooked, using art as a tool for connection and healing. Her storytelling extends beyond murals as well, through films like Sherman Park Rising and Rockford Taking Flight, and her children’s book Caring All Around Me, each rooted in the same commitment to understanding before creating.
All of it begins the same way: by listening.
“The common theme I heard from staff was ‘How are you making a difference in your work environment and for your guests,’” Richardson said. “I wanted to shine a light on that and show their enthusiasm.”
That commitment carried through every layer of Driving Force for Community. What started with 14 voices expanded to include the entire staff, each person invited to leave their mark during a community paint day. More than 30 staff contributed to the mural.
The final piece reflects more than a concept—it captures a living, collective energy. It tells the story of the moments created within the building, the experiences shaped behind the scenes and the ripple effect felt throughout the community beyond its walls.
Driving Force for Community is part of the We Energies Foundation Art Collection located at Baird Center. Richardson is one of more than 35 artists, most from Milwaukee, Wisconsin or with special ties to the area who have works featured in the collection. You can discover more about the artists and their works at https://bairdcenter.com/art-collection/.