Black Cat Alley is an award-winning outdoor art gallery on the East Side and one of the most visited destinations in Milwaukee. Developed by the East Side Business Improvement District and Wallpapered City in 2016 in partnership with community partners and with artists from all over the globe, it's a unique street art destination with over 24 murals and artists - and growing.
As you walk through this previously underutilized alley, pause to enjoy a garden inspired by the mural behind it and soak in the tranquility of art in the middle of an urban center. Black Cat Alley is a gift to the city, provided by the businesses of the East Side and our numerous sponsors, inspiring even more street art popping up throughout Milwaukee. Want to learn more or help support this project? Visit the official Black Cat Alley website.
Black Cat Alley is 20+ outdoor large-scale murals, all in one two-block alley, an "open gallery" walkway. It is located between Kenilworth and Ivanhoe, in the alley between the Oriental Theatre on Farwell Avenue and Colectivo Coffee on Prospect Avenue in the historic East Side neighborhood of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. A formerly dark and quiet space, now is a beautiful, cultural destination for the local visitors and tourists.
Please note: the Ivanhoe entry is the only accessible entry, as the Prospect entryway has a staircase.
It takes tens of thousands of dollars to create and maintain this massive arts destination, and we couldn't do it without corporate support. We have multiple levels of sponsorship available to businesses and individuals wishing to make a major impact. We will emblazon a sponsor’s name alongside monumental works of art, on social media, on-site, and in the news. All donations are tax-deductible and sponsors will enjoy chances to meet the artists, get behind-the-scenes, and promote their brands, all at once. Interested?
No matter the size of your tax-deductible donation, your contribution will help us bring more art and energy to Black Cat Alley.
If you’d prefer to mail a physical check, make it out to East Side BID, PO Box 510197, Milwaukee, WI 53203. Please write “Black Cat Alley” in the memo section of your check or money order.
From art supplies and materials to gift cards, food, and housing for visiting artists... and just about everything in between, in-kind donations are welcome - especially for our major fall mural expansion each year. Think you may have something we could incorporate into this community project?
Calling all art lovers and community activists! It’s impossible to pull off an event of this size and magnitude without the support of a big ol’ team of volunteers. You’ll get to know the artists, the locals, and a whole squad of organizers who— like you—are proud to see a project of this cultural magnitude happen right here in Milwaukee.
Want to take a little of Black Cat Alley home with you – while supporting the alley as well? Purchase sweatshirts, greeting cards, and more. 100% of the proceeds for these items will go directly into producing more new art on the East Side!
Interested in doing a mural in Black Cat Alley? Artists stay updated here!
Interested in showcasing Black Cat Alley in your editorial, promotions or wedding photos or want to put your (artistic) stamp on Black Cat Alley? Reach out!
Thank you for your interest in the Black Cat Alley project. Whether you are interested in becoming a sponsor, a volunteer, or an artist, or just have a question about the project, we want to talk to you.
Please fill out the form below, or if you prefer, contact David Smulyan at director@theeastside.org.
Brought to you by the East Side Business Improvement District.
