A Wisconsin family has committed $10 million to preserve one of the most recognisable architectural landmarks on the shores of Lake Michigan, supporting the future of a museum building famous for its enormous moving wings. The Quadracci family’s contribution to the Milwaukee Art Museum will establish the Quadracci Pavilion Preservation Endowment Fund, which will finance the long-term care and maintenance of the structure’s defining architectural features. Announced on October 26, 2026, the commitment coincides with the pavilion’s 25th anniversary. Designed by Spanish-Swiss architect Santiago Calatrava, the building has become a symbol of Milwaukee’s identity, drawing attention for its striking white wings and distinctive design. The latest contribution brings the family’s total support for the museum to $30 million over three decades. How the $10 million fund will preserve the architectural landmark The contribution will establish an endowment dedicated to the pavilion’s ongoing care. Rather than funding a single announced renovation, the fund will generate annual income to support the maintenance of the building’s defining architectural features over the long term.The commitment comes from the Quadracci family, including Joel and Caran Quadracci, Dr Kathryn Quadracci Flores and Dr Raja Flores, Elizabeth Quadracci Harned and Chris Harned, as well as H. Richard Quadracci, who died in the summer of 2026. The Windhover and Winderful foundations are also involved in the initiative.The family’s latest contribution builds on its longstanding relationship with the museum. At the beginning of the pavilion project, Betty and Harry Quadracci provided a $10 million lead challenge grant. The family has since supported various museum projects and programmes, bringing its total contributions to $30 million over the past three decades. The giant moving wings that define Milwaukee’s skyline The Quadracci Pavilion is best known for its Burke Brise Soleil, a large, wing-like structure that gives the building its distinctive silhouette. Its white movable wings extend over the museum’s entrance, creating a striking architectural feature visible along Milwaukee’s lakefront.Designed by Calatrava, the pavilion opened in 2001 and was his first building in the United States. Its design combines sculptural forms with engineering, making the structure a landmark in its own right rather than simply an entrance to the museum.The moving wings have become closely associated with Milwaukee’s skyline and civic identity. Beyond their visual appeal, the pavilion provides space for visitors to enter the museum, encounter its collections and take part in cultural activities. Its location beside Lake Michigan further connects the building’s design with the city’s waterfront. Why the family wants the pavilion to endure The Quadracci family has described the commitment as a continuation of its parents’ vision for Milwaukee. Joel Quadracci said the original building project was only the first step, adding that its long-term care would help ensure it remained extraordinary for future generations.Kathryn Quadracci Flores said the pavilion represented the imagination and ambition associated with Milwaukee, while Elizabeth Quadracci Harned highlighted her parents’ belief that bringing people into contact with art could encourage creativity.The family’s contribution is intended to protect that legacy by supporting the pavilion’s defining features for years to come. The fund will also help the museum maintain a building that has become part of the city’s shared cultural experience, from family visits and school trips to community gatherings. Milwaukee Art Museum marks 25 years of the pavilion The $10 million commitment coincides with the pavilion’s 25th anniversary. Since opening in 2001, the structure has become a defining part of the Milwaukee Art Museum’s 24-acre lakefront campus, which includes buildings designed by architects Santiago Calatrava, Eero Saarinen and David Kahler.The museum houses a collection of more than 35,000 works spanning different periods, regions and artistic traditions. Its activities include exhibitions and educational programmes that bring art to visitors of different ages and backgrounds. Source link Post Views: 1 Post navigation DDG’s livestream takes an unexpected turn after a surprise appearance leaves fans stunned When Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, a round loaf of bread in Herculaneum was buried under volcanic debris; it was found carbonised nearly 2,000 years later, still showing its eight segments and a baker’s stamp
