Wisconsin Concrete Park | Milwaukee

Wisconsin Concrete Park, located in Phillips, Wisconsin, is a unique and captivating outdoor museum that celebrates the art of folk sculpture through the creative vision of Fred Smith, a self-taught artist and retired lumberjack. Spanning several acres along Highway 13, the park features over 230 life-size and larger-than-life concrete sculptures crafted by Smith between 1948 and 1964. This collection stands as one of the largest assemblages of folk art concrete sculptures in the United States, making it a significant cultural and artistic landmark in northern Wisconsin.

Origins and Artistic Vision

Fred Smith began his sculptural work after retiring from logging and farming, using concrete as his medium due to its durability and versatility. With limited formal training but a rich imagination and deep connection to local history and legend, Smith created an eclectic mix of sculptures that blend realism with fantasy. Many sculptures incorporate found materials such as glass bottles, pieces of mirror, and colored glass embedded into the concrete, adding texture and vibrancy.

His works portray a wide variety of subjects including legendary figures like Paul Bunyan, historical personalities such as Abraham Lincoln and Sacajawea, animals, and scenes from daily rural life. The sculptures often display a whimsical charm and serve as storytelling tools that reflect Wisconsin’s heritage and Smith’s personal experiences.

Features and Highlights

Sculpture Collection: The park’s extensive collection includes more than 230 individual sculptures, ranging from solitary figures to complex groupings like a team of Clydesdale horses pulling a Budweiser wagon. The diversity and scale of the sculptures make walking through the park a continually engaging experience.

Use of Found Objects: Smith’s creative technique of embedding broken glass, colored tiles, and bottle fragments into the sculptures enhances their visual appeal and durability. This mosaic-like effect gives the sculptures a unique shine and color variation that catches the light throughout the day.

Natural Setting: Situated within a wooded area with walking paths, the sculptures are integrated into the natural environment, allowing visitors to explore both the artwork and the surrounding landscape. Picnic tables and shaded spots invite visitors to linger and absorb the atmosphere.

Historic Home and Gallery: Smith’s former residence, located near the park, has been converted into the Countryside Artists Gallery & Gifts. Open seasonally, this gallery showcases regional art and crafts and serves as a visitor center, offering additional context about Smith and the park’s history.

Visitor Amenities and Experience

Wisconsin Concrete Park is open year-round, though the prime visiting season is from spring through fall when the outdoor exhibits are most accessible and comfortable. Admission is free, making it an inviting destination for tourists, art enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in folk art or local history.

The park provides basic amenities such as picnic tables, restrooms (seasonally available), a drinking fountain, and information kiosks. Free guided tours are occasionally offered during summer months, providing deeper insight into Fred Smith’s life, artistic techniques, and the cultural significance of the sculptures.

For groups or educational visits, an enclosed building with electricity and heat can be reserved, enhancing the park’s utility for workshops, presentations, or special events.

Cultural and Historical Importance

Wisconsin Concrete Park stands as a testament to the creative spirit of self-taught artists and the value of folk art in preserving regional stories and traditions. Fred Smith’s work bridges the gap between art and history, offering visitors a tangible connection to Wisconsin’s past through a whimsical, hands-on experience.

The park has been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, underscoring its significance as a cultural heritage site. It attracts visitors not only for its artistic value but also for its role in community identity and tourism in northern Wisconsin.

Practical Information

Location: N8236 State Highway 13, Phillips, Wisconsin 54555

Hours: Open year-round; best visited during daylight hours, especially from late spring to early fall

Admission: Free

Parking: Available onsite

Accessibility: Walking paths vary in terrain; visitors should be prepared for outdoor conditions

Contact: Local visitor information centers can provide current details on tours and events

Wisconsin Concrete Park offers an extraordinary outdoor art experience that blends creativity, history, and natural beauty. Its collection of imaginative concrete sculptures invites visitors to explore Wisconsin’s heritage through the eyes of a unique artist, making it a must-see destination for those traveling through the region.