Continuum 2026

Continuum 2026 brings together two compelling exhibitions—one honoring the enduring influence of landscape through Kevin Giese’s work, and the other reflecting on the lasting impact of mentorship and cultural exchange through a historic UWM study abroad experience. Together, they offer a powerful exploration of place, memory, and artistic legacy across generations.

Touching the Earth: Kevin Giese and Friends

Touching the Earth features the work of Kevin Giese. Select artworks from the past 30 years of his career include drawings, paintings, furniture and sculptural installations that reflect his deep connection to the Wisconsin landscape.

Kevin received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1993, a Master of Art degree in 2005, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in 2007, all from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. For 18 years Kevin taught courses in drawing, sculpture and advanced woodworking at the Peck School of the Arts. In addition, he was the supervisor and technician for the Kenilworth Square East woodshop. He retired staff emeritus in 2025.

Participating artists include UWM alumni Brent Budsberg, Jeffry Giese, Shana McCaw, David Niec, Josie Osborne and Richard Taylor. Each responded to the theme of Touching the Earth. The range of concept, skill, and form between these artists bears well the influence of UWM’s art community from the past 30 years and more.

Exhibiting Artists

Mentorship & Memory: The Haitian Exchange with John Colt

Mentorship and Memory celebrates the profound and lifelong impact of a transformative 1977 study abroad program led by the late Professor of Art and Design, John Colt. During this month-long arts study in Haiti, fourteen University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee students were introduced to the island’s culture and artistic traditions through Colt’s personal connections, including the Haitian National Museum. The experience culminated in a dedicated studio project and an international showcase, serving as a pivotal moment that shaped the creative trajectories and professional lives of those involved, including the late award-winning political cartoonist, Stuart Carlson.

Conceived by UWM alumni Mary (Griffin) Carlson, Jane Michalski, and Warren Garstecki to honor Professor Colt, the exhibition reunites several of the original participants to showcase their artistic evolution over the nearly five decades since the trip. The exhibition features a diverse range of works from alumni, alongside pieces by John Colt. By blending contemporary artwork with personal statements and archival context from the original “Haitian Package” project, the exhibition highlights the enduring power of mentorship and the lasting influence of cultural exchange on the UWM artistic community.

Exhibiting Artists