Welcome to Joy Engine, formerly Black Box Fund

Inspiring Joy and Wonder Through Public Art

JOY ENGINE: Thinking Outside of the Box

We create inclusive public art experiences that reflect the diversity of Milwaukee and are welcoming, family-friendly, and free for all.

Bringing Public Art to Life in Milwaukee

JOY ENGINE is a nonprofit public art organization curating intentional, immersive art experiences to connect, uplift, and inspire the Milwaukee community. We partner with a diverse group of local and international artists to reimagine urban spaces through wondrous, larger-than-life installations — expanding perceptions of how citizens engage with art and advancing community viability and inclusion through creative expression.

On Under One Moon: “I just fell in love with this project — one of those things that when you heard it — “are you kidding me, it will be spectacular!” … [You] could feel the JOY it brought to everyone.”

ArtBlaze

McKinley Beach will be transformed into a haven of artistic wonder and musical delight, shining a light on our amazing parks and local artists.

MKE River Round Up

Joy Engine presents the MKE River Roundup this summer! We’ll be launching kayaks from our Twisted Fisherman location at 5pm every Wednesday evening and paddling 5pm-8pm beginning Wednesday, June 12th.

Past Experiences

JOY ENGINE strives to create meaningful human connection through the power and evolution of public art.

Why Public Art?

At JOY ENGINE, we believe public art is a reflection of our world. Public art contributes to the social vibrancy of our city and is a tool to nurture our neighbors and enhance a sense of community. And since public art is freely accessible, people from every corner and neighborhood can enjoy it and feel inspired.

70% of Americans believe that the “arts improve the image and identity of their community.”

What's Going On?

2022 Mary L. Nohl Fund Fellowships For Individual Artists Awarded

Five recipients of the Mary L. Nohl Fund Fellowships for Individual Artists have been selected from a field of 165

Why Rebrand?

Black Box Fund has rebranded to JOY ENGINE to better capture the group’s mission to celebrate, promote and expand access

Joy Engine Presents MKE River Round Up Concert Series

Float with us on the Milwaukee River while you enjoy spectacular tunes from an incredible lineup of performers.

Wait, What Is Joy Engine?

This is Awesome,
How Do I Support?

Get Ready for Unforgettable Public Art Events in Milwaukee.

A transformative art experience is just a click away. Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest updates on JOY ENGINE’s lineup of dynamic art events.

Stay Connected

Artist Spotlight: Nicole Gahl (@gahlgal) ✨ Meet N

What is the Joy Grant? 🤔 We’re glad you asked! Swi

Get ready to spread more joy! The 2027 Joy Grant a

Arts & Large (@artsatlargemke) is celebrating a ma

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Become a Joyologist and reach out below:

Artists – we want to support you and share your work with our community!
Please submit an Artist Spotlight if you’d like to be featured on our social media.

What is your name?

What is your email address?

What are your pronouns?

What type(s) of art do you do?

How would you describe yourself as an artist?

How did you get started with your art?

What is the mission or vision behind your art?

What is your proudest accomplishment?

What is a project you're currently working on that you're excited about?

Where do you find inspiration for your art?

What is a fun fact about you?

Where can the Milwaukee community go to experience or learn more about your art in the physical world?

Where can the Milwaukee community go to experience or learn more about your art in the digital world (website, social media, etc.)?

Who is a local artist you admire?

Please include photos for us to share with your Artist Spotlight. This could include a headshot of you, a photo of you with your work, a photo of you creating, photos of your art, photos of your workspace, etc.

Our partnership program supports unique artistic projects across a diverse spectrum of artistic disciplines and cultural expressions.

Submit an Artist Spotlight