Artist Collectives and Cooperatives

​This information was first featured in the Creative Copy.


Connectivity is important for artists, so we’ve gathered artist collectives and cooperatives in different regions of the state, as well as Wisconsin-wide/Midwest organizations. Please see below, and if you know of an organization that we missed, send a message to vivienne.timchenko@wisconsin.gov!​


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Wisconsin-Wide / Midwest Organizations

  • Wisconsin Visual Artists (WVA): A nonprofit membership organization that connects, educates, and empowers visual artists across Wisconsin through exhibitions, publications, and professional development resources.
  • Wisconsin Craft: A statewide nonprofit dedicated to promoting fine craft through events like the MKE Studio Tour and member meetups, fostering a supportive community for craft artists.
  • Arts for All Wisconsin: Provides arts programs for individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusivity through dance, drama, creative writing, music, and visual art.
  • ArtCraft Wisconsin: A statewide collective supporting artists and craftspeople through exhibitions, educational programs, and networking opportunities.
  • PhotoMidwest: A nonprofit community dedicated to the phot​ographic arts, offering classes, exhibitions, and the biennial PhotoMidwest Festival.
  • The Black Midwest Initiative: A collective of scholars, artists, and activists committed to challenging racial and economic injustice in the Midwest through research, art, and community engagement.
  • Wisconsin Writers Association: A creative community dedicated to the support of writers and authors, and sponsors and hosts year-round workshops and events throughout Wisconsin.
  • Art MidWisconsin: An award-winning regional collective of visual artists who bring insight, instincts, and experience to the classroom to help beginning and trained artists explore new methods and approaches while advancing their skills as artists.​

Southern Wisconsin

  • Madison Art Guild: Established in 1914, this nonprofit organization comprises over 140 artists in Dane County. It offers educational experiences, exhibition opportunities, and a supportive community for artists.
  • 350 Wisconsin Art Collective: A group passionate about addressing the climate crisis through creative, humorous, and artistic means, integrating art with environmental activism.
  • 14 South Artists: Originating along the Highway 14 corridor, this group has expanded to include over 50 members. They promote visual arts through community outreach, exhibitions, and educational programs.
  • Southern Wisconsin Art Guild (SWAG): Formed in 2021 to continue the tradition of the Paoli Art Show, SWAG supports visual artists through events like "Art in the Park" and regular exhibitions.
  • Willy Street Co-op Art Gallery: Provides opportunities for artists to display their work in community spaces, supporting local creatives.

Central Wisconsin

  • Rise Up Central Wisconsin: Operates as a community public art nonprofit dedicated to "Art with Purpose." They have a free community makerspace in downtown Wausau and fundraise for community-driven public art like murals all over Central Wisconsin.

Eastern Wisconsin

  • Oshkosh Art Collective: A community-focused group dedicated to highlighting local artists and art initiatives in the Greater Oshkosh area. They offer events, artist resources, and business services to support artists of all experience levels.
  • Q Artists Cooperative – Stevens Point: Located in downtown Stevens Point, this cooperative features a diverse group of local artists working in various mediums. The gallery is open daily, showcasing unique, community-rooted art.

Western Wisconsin

  • VIVA Gallery Cooperative: Since 2004, VIVA has been a hub for 2D and 3D artists in the Driftless Area. The cooperative emphasizes local talent and offers a welcoming space for art appreciation.

Milwaukee Area

  • Milwaukee Artist Resource Network (MARN): Serves as a central hub for artists in Milwaukee, offering resources, networking opportunities, and a public art and culture space in the Historic Third Ward.
  • Mitchell Street Arts: A nonprofit collaborative promoting creative abundance through coworking spaces, residencies, and public programming.
  • Woodland Pattern: A nonprofit organization dedicated to the discovery and cultivation of poetry and the arts, offering readings, exhibitions, and educational programs in Milwaukee's Riverwest neighborhood.
  • Bronzeville Collective MKE: A marketplace and creative space housing over 40 local and national brands, supporting artists and entrepreneurs.
  • Walker's Point Center for the Arts: A cultural staple of the Walker’s Point neighborhood and a powerful advocate for underrepresented artists in Milwaukee and beyond.
  • ArtRoot​: A​ committee of artists and arts advocates who are determined to reinvigorate Racine through the arts​.
  • Gallery 218​: A membership organization with an all volunteer art gallery space creating exhibition opportunities for artist for 34 years.

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