8/9/25 Aluminum Pour – Art on the Ave

Honoring Joe Hermolin: A Memorial Bench & Community Art Fundraiser

 

Antigo Visual Arts is proud to honor the life and legacy of our dear friend and former president, Joe Hermolin, who passed away in December 2023. Joe was more than a board member — he was a mentor, a leader, and a tireless advocate for the arts and history of our community. His thoughtful presence and commitment helped shape our organization and the greater Langlade County arts and history scene.

 

To celebrate Joe’s lasting impact, we are fundraising for a memorial bench to be placed at the Langlade County Historical Museum, where Joe dedicated countless hours preserving and sharing local history.

 

We’ve commissioned Wisconsin artist Teresa Lind (teresalind.com), known for her stunning metal-poured sculptures, to design and create this one-of-a-kind bench in Joe’s memory.

 

To help bring this vision to life, Teresa is also hosting Aluminum Pour Art Events, where you can create your own personalized 5″x5″ aluminum keepsake!

 

 Here’s how it works:

• Purchase a mold block for $25
• Use tools provided to carve your own design, word, or tribute
• Watch Teresa pour molten aluminum at 1800°F into your mold
• Take home a permanent, meaningful piece of art — all while supporting Joe’s bench

 

All proceeds go directly to the bench fund.

 

 Want to contribute or can’t attend an event?
Donations can also be sent via Venmo to

@tonya-mckennatrabant

a close family friend of Joe’s who is helping us collect funds with the blessing of his family.

 

This is a unique way to honor Joe’s legacy — through art, community, and creativity. He would have loved this.

 

Please share, donate, and join us in remembering a truly remarkable man whose spirit continues to inspire.