A Thousand Cranes, One Community
What began as an idea within ENGAGE West Allis has taken flight—literally and symbolically. Over the past months, neighbors, friends, and strangers gathered in creative workshops at the West Allis Public Library, the West Allis Senior Center, OPE! Brewing Co., and at A La Carte to fold delicate origami cranes. Each fold was more than paper—it was a gesture of hope, healing, and connection.
With patience, laughter, and the occasional helpful tip from a fellow folder, we reached the milestone: 1,000 cranes. In Japanese tradition, this is called a senbazuru, a symbol of peace and good fortune. At a workshop in August at The Weathered Shed, these individual cranes were carefully strung together into one vibrant traveling artwork. This community creation will journey across the City over the coming year, sharing our collective spirit in every place it visits.
This first flight also carries a very special story. Among the cranes are ones folded years ago by Madeline Mishefske, whose brother, Eric, brought them forward for inclusion in our project. Madeline, who passed away 10 years ago at the age of 25, was known for her curiosity and creativity while working at American Science & Surplus. By weaving her cranes into the senbazuru, we not only honor her memory, but also affirm that our community’s connections can span both time and generations.
The traveling display’s first stop will be at American Science & Surplus to celebrate Madeline’s birthday on Sept. 10, a fitting place for the artwork to begin its journey.
Through this project, ENGAGE West Allis reminds us that art is not just something we make—it’s something we make together. And when we do, it carries our stories, our memories, and our hopes wherever it goes.
Schedule
September - American Science & Surplus (6901 W. Oklahoma Ave.)
October - City Hall Art Gallery (7525 W. Greenfield Ave.)
November - Inspiration Studios (1500 S. 73rd St.)
December - OPE! Brewing Co. (6751 W. National Ave.)
January - West Allis Senior Center (7001 W. National Ave.)
February – West Allis Public Library (7421 W. National Ave.)
March - West Allis West Milwaukee Recreation Center (2450 S. 68th St.)
April – MAC Costumes (7226 W. Greenfield Ave.)