Antigo Visual Arts (AVA) is proud to announce a unique collaboration with the Antigo Fire Department (AFD) that brings distinctive art to the AFD apparatus bay. This project, spearheaded by AVA artist Vicki Eldridge, features custom-designed fire department patches that celebrate community spirit.
In the summer of 2023, Chief Corey Smith approached AVA with a request to have fire department patches painted on the bay walls. Danna Gabriel of AVA shared, “Chief Smith’s request was an exciting opportunity for us. Vicki Eldridge eagerly embraced the challenge and developed a creative plan to bring these patches to life.”
Firefighter/Paramedic Julianna Bauknecht, who is also an AVA member, commented, “Having community art in the fire station is a wonderful reminder of why we do our job. It’s a meaningful way to carry the community’s support with us to every emergency scene.” Bauknecht is pictured reviewing the artwork in the apparatus bay.
Vicki Eldridge, known for her innovative use of recycled materials, applied her signature technique to these fire department patches. The four patches, crafted from 4×6 feet and 4×4 feet pieces of styrofoam and mounted on ¼ inch plywood, are displayed in the AFD apparatus bay. These artworks mirror the style of Eldridge’s carved, award-winning totems, which are regularly featured in the AVA gallery at the Langlade County Historical Museum. AVA, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the community through art, organizes three judged art gallery shows annually, leads a recycled art committee, and manages a downtown mural committee. We are also excited to announce the opening of a new art center at the Aspen Village Apartment Complex on Hogan Street in Antigo.
To celebrate the unveiling of these unique patches, a special event is being planned during Fire Prevention Week, from October 6-12. Details about the celebration will be announced closer to the date. This event will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate the art while honoring the work of our local firefighters.
