WCW Sculpture Project

  • Apr 25, 2011

In celebration of its 125th anniversary of dedicated community service, the Woman's Club of Wisconsin Foundation commissioned world-renowned Polish sculptress, Magdalena Abakanowicz, to create a monumental work of public art. Since 2001 "Birds of Knowledge of Good and Evil" have soared above the Kilbourn Avenue median directly across from the Club entrance.

"Birds of Knowledge of Good and Evil" emphasizes the importance of community service in the fabric of city life. The sculpture consists of six enchanting ucelli-hand sculpted aluminum birds. The birds were an ideal choice, as their outstretched wings and gazes fixed on the horizon suggest the essence of volunteerism and the core of the human spirit.

This project was funded entirely by the members of the Woman's Club, with a lead gift from the Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation. Upon completion this symbol of volunteerism would be a gift to the City of Milwaukee. 

In 2011, a Sculpture Committee was formed to research the overall status of the installation. The artist's original concept and the committee's vision of the completed site brought the following enhacements: the addition of limestone rocks around the upper perimeter of the mound, new LED lights, a brick circle seating area and a walkway connecting the sculpture with the city-installed brick walk to the east.