Kenosha to Cosenza: Sister Cities Mural Unveiling Celebrates International Friendship through Art
Kenosha, WI — The Italian American Society of Kenosha and the Sister Cities Association of Kenosha proudly invite the public to the unveiling of a new collaborative mural celebrating the vibrant cultural connection between Kenosha, Wisconsin and Cosenza, Italy. The unveiling ceremony will take place on Saturday, Aug. 2, at 12 p.m. at the Italian American Society, 2217 52nd Street, Kenosha.
Designed by Italian muralist Carlo Giardina in collaboration with Professor Carey Watters’ graphic design students at UW-Parkside, this mural is the first of two cross-continental public artworks symbolizing the enduring friendship and shared heritage of the two Sister Cities. Featuring historic imagery, Mediterranean motifs, and elements from both cities’ cultural landscapes.
“The Sister Cities program is about building bridges,” says Watters, “and this mural is a living testament to that spirit—celebrating history, exchange, and creativity across borders.”
“We are so excited to collaborate with Carlo, UW-Parkside, and the Italian American Society to bring this visual representation of Kenosha’s connection with Cosenza to our communities,” said Teri Jacobson, Sister Cities Association of Kenosha Secretary.
This project was supported by the City of Kenosha, UW-Parkside, and generous community donors, including Snap On, Jennie Tunkieicz, Elizabeth K. Brown, and Michael & Louise Principe.
Donations are still being sought for the Kenosha Sister City Mural program. A second mural is to be installed in Cosenza, Italy, in the summer of 2026, and the group is looking to do future murals in Kenosha, representing Kenosha’s other sister city relationships in Wolfenbuttel, Douai & Quezon City. Donations can be made on the Kenosha Sister City website: https://www.kenoshasistercities.com/cosenza-mural-project
Since its founding in 1968, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside has been a trusted partner for the region’s higher educational needs, empowering students to thrive, advancing applied knowledge, and developing talent for the future. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates and pre-professional programs, designed to foster personal and professional growth through real-world and impactful learning experiences. Located in the dynamic Chicago-Milwaukee corridor, UW-Parkside offers unmatched access to world-class internships, professional networks, and endless career-building opportunities, placing students at the center of it all.
Media contact:
Derek Fye
Communications Manager
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Fye@uwp.edu | (262) 771-5419