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By Grace Dugan, Charles Allis Art Museum Inc.
The Charles Allis Art Museum will host the opening reception for Strike at Allis Chalmers and Other Wisconsin Stories, an exhibition by Artist in Residence John Fleissner on Thursday, June 25 from 5-9 p.m.
The exhibition explores the struggle of the Allis-Chalmers workers in their heroic strike for union security and higher wages at the West Allis plant first in 1941 and again in 1946. These workers organized a powerful union, United Auto Workers (UAW) 248, which became the backbone of the broader Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in Wisconsin. Their strike was met with repression, water cannons, and armored vehicles. The union’s militant story is told through a large scale woodcut, historical photos, film and ephemera. This exhibition also explores other Wisconsin working class history, social movements, and folk culture, depicting a history and art practice for the many. It will remain on view through October 24th, 2026. Prints will be available for purchase in the museum store.
- Opening reception: Thursday, June 25 | 5 – 9 p.m.
- Doors will open at 5 p.m. A cash bar is available on site. Outside beverages are not permitted.
- This event is free and open to the public.
- Optional RSVP can be found at https://events.mketix.com/events/strike-and-allis-chalmers-and-other-wisconsin-stories-6-25-2026.
About John Fleissner
John Fleissner is a printmaker and muralist using art to build the power of working class social movements. John’s experiences organizing in the labor movement informs his subject matter. Often the impetus for a new print or poster is the development of a new organizing campaign. The connection to social movements gives his artwork focus and direction. John teaches Printmaking at Alexander Hamilton High School in Milwaukee Public Schools. As an educator, John focuses on teaching students the power of art to change the world. John represents High School Teachers on the Milwaukee Teachers Education Association Executive Board where he organizes for worker and student power.
About Charles Allis Art Museum
The Charles Allis Art Museum is a historic home and art museum bequeathed to Milwaukee by Sarah Ball Allis. Named for Sarah’s husband, the Museum permanently houses the couple’s vast art collection with works dating from 3000 B.C. through the twentieth century. Today, the Allis enriches Milwaukee’s quality of life by creating opportunities for residents and visitors to experience history, culture, and the arts.
About Charles Allis Art Museum Inc.
Charles Allis Art Museum Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving Milwaukee’s history and enriching the county through culture and the arts. The Allis supports and celebrates the public’s access to this historic home and its art collection by providing innovative and inspiring exhibitions and programming that encourages a better, stronger and more inclusive Milwaukee. Charles Allis Art Museum Inc. oversees the conservation and continued development of the museum through member and donor support. For information regarding membership, admission and events visit charlesallis.org
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