Neon artist Rosalie 'Rosie' Phillips presents her debut exhibition 'Still Life' at River Press gallery in Milwaukee, on view through August 2. The installation features hand-bent neon figures of everyday people living in a community, each with unique poses and 3D-printed props, inspired by Phillips' own experience of moving to a new city and feeling isolation. Phillips, who studied engineering at MIT and learned neon glasswork under Juan Ortega, combines art and science in her practice, and also leads neon-bending workshops at Milwaukee Makerspace.
This exhibition matters because it highlights a rising local artist who bridges engineering and fine craft, bringing a fresh, sculptural approach to neon art traditionally associated with signage. Phillips' work resonates with themes of urban community and isolation, and her success—including a third-place win at the Glass Arts Festival—signals growing recognition for contemporary glass and neon art in Milwaukee's cultural scene.