I love it when cities recruit artists to enrich their downtown area. Janesville, a city in southern Wisconsin, is doing just that. Janesville recently held its annual Art Infusion event, which involves mural painting, a chalk art competition, and live music. This year the call for mural artists opened up to the U.S. with artists invited from Chicago, Miami, and Chattanooga.

Get ready for a photo walk

As soon as I arrived at the transit center, my head was on a swivel. There is color in every direction, and I’m not talking about the leaves. This small-scale urban area is becoming Instagrammable, and it’s delightful. I recommend getting around on foot, as there is more than the new murals to spark interest.

The artists and their work

Chicago artist Ruben Aguirre – 408 South Main Street

“Dancing on the Stars”

Chicago artist CJ Hungerman – 20 South Main Street (located behind the building)

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Chattanooga artist Nathan Brown – 14 South Jackson Street

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Miami artist Ivan Roque – 31 West Milwaukee Street (these two images are a snippet of the large-scale mural)

“The River of Life”

Madison artist Emily Balsley – 14 South River Street. I have to include a plug about Emily’s new book because it’s so exciting. “Every Cake has a Story” by Christina Tosi and illustrated by Emily. Congrats, you two!

“My Pet Park”

Milwaukee artist David Mark Zimmerman – 200 South River Street

“Get Lost AKA The Adventure”

A perfect way to end the day

Whenever I’m in town, I stop at Rock County Brewing Company. They offer great beer with a nice patio. During this visit, I chose two newly tapped beers. I started with a Barrel-Aged Scottish Export, aged for six months in a Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. Rye barrel. This ale is smooth with notes of caramel, malt, and rye. Next up was a Guava Milkshake IPA brewed with lactose and vanilla. I’m a fan of guava in beer, at least this one! I left feeling content.

Scottish export vs. Guava Milkshake IPA

Downtown Janesville has a lot to offer, including historic architecture, a riverwalk, cute shops, and restaurants. I look forward to heading back to check out a new eatery that is opening soon. I think Sandwich Bar is going to be worthy of a trip in itself.