Milwaukee's identity and culture are deeply tied to water. The Great Lakes nurtured our ancestors and continue to shape us as a people and as a community. Artistic expression can enhance our sense of connection to our common waters, help us confront threats and spark new ideas where other ways fall short. 
 
A strong water culture stimulated by the arts supports implementing all the other Water City initiatives and build identity by bringing people together from all walks of life and experience. Water-inspired art appeals to the hearts of all Milwaukeeans through expressions of beauty, creativity and spirituality.