Celebrating One Year of Leadership: Ryan Laessig’s First Year with the East Side BID

Congratulations to our Executive Director, Ryan Laessig, on an incredible first year leading the East Side Business Improvement District! From his first introduction in Fall 2024 to now, Ryan has brought fresh energy, community focus, and creative vision to the vibrant arts hub of the East Side.

Here’s a look at the milestones and momentum from Ryan’s first full year at the helm:

A Year of Public Art

Ryan has played a key role in growing the East Side as a destination for public art lovers:

• He coordinated adding 8 new murals to Black Cat Alley:

• “Wild Bill” by Brent Schoonover & Hannah Tews
• “The Subtraction of Children” by David Najib Kasir
• “Dedication” by ALLDAY PAINTING
• "And Now You're Here” by Adam Melster
• “Petit Paradis” by Alain Poma
• “Right Here” by Danny Duffy
• “Mom” by Hannah Tews
• “Roger” by Cosmic Goat

• Oversaw the creation of “Veridian Kaleidoscope,” a large-scale ground mural in Ivanhoe Plaza painted by Alain Poma and Ryan himself.
• Brought new barrier artwork to Ivanhoe Plaza by artist Cutesy Macabre, adding more color and creativity to the public space.
• Created and supported multiple art-focused events, including Black Cat Alley After Dark, East Side Gallery Night, and Doors Open Mural Fest.

Ivanhoe Plaza Becomes a Community Hub

This small but mighty plaza has flourished under Ryan’s leadership:

• Hosted multiple community events like art and small business markets, DJ sets and live concerts, and supported community partners in hosting creative, inclusive programming in the space such as a collaborative rock painting party.
• Helped fully transform the plaza into a welcoming space for connection, creativity, and calm.
• Strengthened the BID’s investment in placemaking and public space activation.
• Led a workshop at the International Public Markets Conference titled “Pop-Up Markets & Pedestrian Spaces in Milwaukee's East Side Neighborhood” highlighting how the East Side BID is transforming its commercial corridors through creative public use, including Black Cat Alley and Ivanhoe Plaza.

Events That Bring People Together

Ryan helped build on long-standing traditions and introduce fresh experiences:

• He created Black Cat Alley After Dark, drawing new audiences with a free silent disco and live art.
• Led planning for Summer Soulstice Music Festival 2025, the largest event on the East Side calendar.
• Introduced new events like: East Side Madness, East Side Gallery Night, Rolling Bike Party, and Doors Open Mural Fest
• Supported local partners and creatives in co-hosting unique neighborhood experiences such as MKE Film Fest, GEMS ONLY Summer Jam, Cream Fresh Fest vintage market, and UWM x Say Werd Panther Pride vintage market.

Building Momentum Behind the Scenes

Beyond events and murals, Ryan has made big progress in long-term planning:

• He helped advance the BID Expansion proposal, ensuring continued investment in the neighborhood.
• Grew community engagement through increased sponsorship opportunities and expanded newsletter content.
• Continued to champion a neighborhood that is safe, vibrant, and inclusive.

What’s Next?

As we head into fall and look ahead to 2026, Ryan and the BID team are continuing to build on this momentum. From Small Business Saturday to the Holiday Open House, there’s still plenty more to experience and celebrate on the East Side. Stay connected, support local, and keep showing up for your neighborhood.

Way to go, Ryan! Here's to a fantastic first year and many more to come.