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Antigo Visual Arts

Antigo Visual Arts AVA, in partnership with local downtown businesses, is excited to present the 2nd Annual Downtown Art Scavenger Hunt, returning for summer 2026. After a fantastic inaugural year, this interactive event once again celebrates the creativity of local artists and the unique charm of Antigo’s downtown while inviting the community to explore, discover, and connect.

From June 13 through August 13, community members and visitors are invited to explore downtown Antigo in search of 36 original artworks inspired by storybook fantasy theme.  The works—ranging from traditional paintings to carvings, a mosaic, and even nearly 3D pieces—have been created by Antigo Visual Artists. Each piece is displayed either in a business window or mounted outside the building, making for a vibrant and engaging art walk across a five-block area, plus six additional businesses just off 5th Avenue.

Each artwork is clearly marked with “AVA” and a number to help guide participants on their artistic treasure hunt. Entry forms are available at participating businesses and must be completed and returned to Harper’s Merchantile no later than August 13 Only 1 entry per person please.

To reward the most successful art hunters, AVA will award a total of $500 in Chamber Gift Certificates:

• 🥇 First Place – $250
• 🥈 Second Place – $100
• 🥉 Third Place – $100
• 🏅 Fourth Place – $50

In the event of a tie, winners will be drawn at random.

Participants are also encouraged to vote for their top four favorite artworks. The artists whose pieces receive the most votes will receive the same prize values as the winning participants. It’s a fun way to support local talent and connect with the creative spirit of the community.

“This project brings together our vibrant art community and our charming downtown in a fun, interactive way,” said Marie Benes, AVA member and project lead. “It’s a win-win for artists, local businesses, and residents looking to enjoy a creative summer stroll.”

Winners will be announced on August 15 during the Downtown Car Show, where AVA will also host a silent auction featuring select scavenger hunt artworks. The auction will take place under the horse mural on 5th Avenue, with additional details to be shared in the coming weeks.

This year’s event features work from the following artists, who generously contributed their time and creativity to make downtown Antigo a summer destination:

LIST ARTISTS HERE:

1. Crystal Springstroh

2. Beatie Gmeiner

3. Kim Schoenrock

4. Vicki Eldridge

5. Mary Hayes

6. Jean Adams

7. Michael Hagerty

8. Shelli Hagerty

9. Pat Packard

10. Linda Robinson

11. Camille Converse

12. Rosemary Bauknecht

13. Eric Dehart

14. Karen Now-Stimac

15. Joanne March

16. Madison Taylor

17. Angela Wildman

18. Andrew Wildman

19. Julianna Bauknecht

20. Nancy Leder

21. Dusti Holup

22. Cooper Rickert

23, Emily Popelka

24. Helen Peterson

25. Ella Roerhig

26. Elzbieta Nickowski

27. Will Wissbroecker

28. Cristine Shepherd

29. Anthony Felix OR Gloria Pagel

30. Olivia Kraucyk

31. Daimon Reynolds

32. Megan Hoha

33. Dodie Honzik

34. Shawn Piela

35. Jeanne Dahlke

36. Sabriel Messer

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a new way to enjoy downtown, this scavenger hunt offers a unique blend of creativity, community, and fun for all ages. You don’t need to be present to win—but you do need to get hunting!