Celebrating 50 years of art & design education.
The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) proudly celebrates 50 years of art and design education in 2024, and boldly looks to a shared creative future of innovation and service with our students, our Greater Milwaukee community, and beyond.
Events
There are many opportunities to continue celebrating MIAD’s 50th anniversary this fall. We can’t wait to see you!
Brooks Stevens Cars x Coffee
August 25, 2024 | MIAD
Car show, coffee, exhibition and more
Gallery Receptions
Sept. 19, 2024, 6 – 8 p.m. | MIAD Galleries
Receptions for two MIAD exhibitions
Alumni Reunion
Oct. 18 & 19, 2024 | MIAD
Reconnect with other MIAD alumni
MIAD Pathsetters
Oct. 18 – Dec. 7, 2024 | MIAD
An Emeriti Exhibition
1974 – Present
Our History
1974
MIAD founded
MIAD is founded, born from the nationally acclaimed Layton School of Art (est. 1920) and the forward-thinking legacy of its founders, life partners Charlotte Partridge and Miriam Frink.
1992
MIAD moves to current building
MIAD moves to its current Third Ward location at 273 E. Erie St. Admissions gave hardhat tours during construction of the new building.
2006
MIAD logo created
MIAD’s current logo is created by designers Chermayeff & Geismar.
2014–2019
Enrollment increases
Enrollment increases 50%, reaching 920 students.
2019
Equity & Inclusion
Equity & Inclusion Center opens.
2023
Present day
The college completes its $10 million Our Creative Future campaign, Fashion and Apparel Design major launches, MIAD Gallery at The Ave opens, enrollment holds strong at 877; first year-retention is 86%