River Press, a new art studio and shop in Milwaukee's Riverwest neighborhood, is opening its first micro-exhibition on August 29. The inaugural show, titled "Life Should Make More Sense Than This," features a solo presentation by Milwaukee artist Sarah Jane Sutterfield, including metallic monotypes and three sculptural pieces exploring love, grief, and transformation. The exhibition runs through November, with a reception from 5-9 p.m. on opening night.
This opening matters because it represents a grassroots effort by local printmaker Mya Giuliani to create a dedicated brick-and-mortar space for working-class artists in Milwaukee, who often lack proper representation in the city's art scene. By rotating solo shows every three months alongside workshops and an in-store collection, River Press aims to elevate emerging local talent and foster community engagement, offering an alternative to importing art from outside the region.