A Floral Spectacle Like Never Before—Experience Art That Soars Above You
The Vision Behind “Lost”: An Artist’s Journey Into Light And Scale
In the realm of contemporary public art, few names command attention quite like Amanda Parer. Hailing from Australia, Parer has built a reputation for crafting large-scale, interactive installations that challenge perceptions of space and form. Her work often incorporates soft materials inflated to monumental proportions, creating a sense of wonder and curiosity in viewers. “Lost,” her latest North American debut, continues this tradition with three gargantuan floral structures designed to dominate the landscape while inviting contemplation.
The concept behind “Lost” draws inspiration from nature’s ephemeral beauty and humanity’s evolving relationship with the environment. Each sculpture—a blend of petals and leaves—stands at 16 feet tall and spans over 2,100 square feet when fully installed. The pieces are constructed from durable nylon fabric printed with intricate botanical patterns, lit internally by LED systems, and held aloft by powerful air blowers. This fusion of technology and aesthetics creates a surreal atmosphere, especially after dark, when the glowing flora transforms into luminous beacons.
Where Art Meets Community: A Festival Designed For Engagement
Beyond its visual impact, “Lost” serves as a catalyst for interaction and dialogue. Installed on the grounds of the Marcus Performing Arts Center during the week of July 14–20, the exhibit invites attendees to walk among the blossoms, touch their surfaces, and experience them from multiple perspectives. The layout encourages exploration, prompting both adults and children to engage with the artwork physically and emotionally.
Complementing the installation, the festival includes plans for a rainbow-colored piano placed outdoors for spontaneous musical expression. Weather permitting, this instrument becomes a communal hub where passersby can play, collaborate, or simply listen. Such initiatives underscore the festival’s mission: to foster connection through creative encounters. The combination of curated art and open participation makes the event not just a showcase but a shared cultural experience.
Music Under The Blooms: A Week Of Sonic Celebration
The timing of “Lost” aligns perfectly with a robust music program featuring a diverse array of performers. From jazz-infused brass ensembles to nostalgic 90s dance parties, the lineup reflects the city's eclectic tastes and celebrates the power of live performance. On July 15, Brass Queens bring their bold horn-driven energy to the stage, followed by Digable Planets on the 16th—an act known for blending hip-hop with experimental jazz influences. July 17 sees the arrival of Chicago Latin Groove, delivering infectious rhythms rooted in salsa and Afro-Caribbean traditions, while Fool House caps off the week on the 18th with a high-energy tribute to the iconic decade of grunge and pop-punk.
This convergence of sound and sculpture turns the festival into more than a visual feast—it becomes a full sensory immersion. Audiences can wander between the towering blooms while soaking in live music, creating a layered experience that appeals to both casual observers and dedicated art enthusiasts. The interplay between auditory and visual elements enhances the emotional resonance of each performance, offering a uniquely Milwaukee-style celebration of creativity and diversity.
Partnerships Powering Public Art
Bringing such ambitious projects to life requires collaboration, and “Lost” is no exception. The installation is made possible through a joint effort between the Marcus Performing Arts Center and Milwaukee Downtown BID #21, an organization dedicated to revitalizing the downtown area through cultural programming and economic development. Their partnership underscores the growing importance of cross-sector alliances in supporting large-scale public art initiatives.
By pooling resources and expertise, these organizations ensure that high-impact artistic experiences remain accessible to the broader community. The presence of “Lost” not only elevates the local arts scene but also reinforces Milwaukee’s commitment to becoming a destination for innovative cultural events. This collaborative model may serve as a blueprint for future endeavors, demonstrating how cities can harness collective strength to bring global-caliber art to local audiences.
More Than Just Flowers: Expanding The Season With Inflatable Wonders
The floral spectacle is just one chapter in Milwaukee’s summer of inflatable art. Following the run of “Lost,” the ArtBlaze beach party series introduces another wave of whimsy with HydroBloom sculptures at McKinley Beach on three separate dates: July 24, August 7, and August 21. These temporary installations continue the theme of playful, large-scale design while introducing aquatic motifs, further enriching the city’s seasonal offerings.
These events reflect a broader trend in urban spaces where temporary art installations serve dual purposes: beautifying public areas while drawing crowds and fostering civic pride. By embracing this format, Milwaukee positions itself within a growing movement that values experiential art as a vital component of modern city life. Whether through massive flowers or floating water-themed creations, the summer season becomes a canvas for innovation, inviting residents and tourists alike to explore new dimensions of artistic expression.