Q&A with LFOA Artist Rosy Petri

Milwaukee artist Rosy Petri is one of more than 100 jury-selected artists participating in this year’s Lakefront Festival of Art (LFOA) at the Museum. Petri has worked in mixed media, specializing in textile arts and fabric portraiture, for more than a decade. Honored locally and nationally, she was recognized as a Winning Artist at the 2023 LFOA and is the poster artist for 2024.

Tell us about “Tugboat on the Milwaukee River,”
the work you created for this year’s LFOA poster.

I thought about what things signify the city for me. I remember moving back to Milwaukee at 17 and falling in love with the river downtown. I loved seeing the Solomon Juneau tugboat gliding under the bridges unique to our city. That riverfront view at sunset is magical, and I wanted to celebrate my coming of age in this city. I recently read an article about the tugboat’s owner, and in my own little way, I wanted to thank him for spreading delight.

How has your work changed?

My work is more internal, more still, than what I showed in 2023. Last year, I had the pleasure of a two-week artist residency in Occidental, California. Being surrounded by the lushness of tropical plants and redwoods was magical. That time helped calm my heart during ongoing catastrophes, and nature is taking a more prominent place in
my practice.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by everything. I love to read and travel; both make themselves known in my work. I love colors, music, cooking, and daydreaming. I research topics of interest and look to global artisanship and traditional craft to explore material in new ways. As for contemporary influences, I love Bisa Butler, Vanessa German, Fabiola Jean-Louis, Delita Martin, and Harmonia Rosales. Locally, I love Kierston Ghaznavi, Tayla and Kaelyn Hart, Della Wells, and so many more. I am energized and inspired by my artist friends.