Creative Showcases of Fine Art & Fiber Arts

Back in Bloom: Annual Yarn Bombing Returns

Yarn Bombing and Caboose at the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Yarn Bombing at the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Yarn Bombing at the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

The Beaver Dam Yarn Bombers continue to bring color, creativity, and community spirit to downtown Beaver Dam with their ever-growing fiber arts installations during the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival. From South Spring Street to portions of Front Street and Maple Avenue, visitors can discover benches, light posts, and even the fence at Stooge’s Bar & Grill wrapped in vibrant handmade creations that transform everyday spaces into works of art. This year, the Yarn Bombers are adding an exciting new project to their collection by “bombing” the Caboose, creating yet another fun and unexpected attraction for residents and visitors to enjoy.

More than just colorful displays, the Beaver Dam Yarn Bombers showcase the talent, imagination, and dedication of local fiber artists who help bring Beaver Dam to life in a unique way. Their installations have become a beloved part of the community experience, encouraging people to explore downtown, snap photos, and appreciate the creativity woven throughout the city. With each passing year, the displays continue to grow, adding even more charm and artistic flair to Beaver Dam.

Yarn Bombing and Caboose at the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Yarn Bombing at the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival Beaver Dam, Wisconsin Inspiration Board
Yarn Bombing at the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Peony Art Exhibit at the Dodge County Center for the Arts

Dodge County Center for the Arts | 130 West Maple Avenue
Friday, June 12: 11 AM-5 PM
Saturday, June 13: 11 AM-5 PM
Sunday, June 14: 11 AM-5 PM

The Peony Art Exhibit, held in conjunction with the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival, takes place at the Dodge County Center for the Arts. Each year, artists from all over gather to showcase their talent in their Peony Art Exhibit and Competition. What sets their competition apart is its inclusivity—artists are free to express themselves using any medium they choose, resulting in a diverse array of stunning works of art. From intricate paintings to captivating sculptures, the possibilities are endless. Here, we not only celebrate the artistic spirit but also the vibrant allure of peonies, which serve as both muse and subject. This year they have 30 entries for the Peony Art Contest!

While you’re perusing the Peony Art Exhibit, be sure to take the time to visit 40+ other artists creations on display and for sale! 

Below, you’ll find a glimpse into the captivating submissions and exhibited pieces from past shows, each one a testament to the beauty of art and nature intertwining. 

Two Quilt Exhibits at Two Amazing Spaces!

Black & White Plus One Quilt Exhibit at the Dodge County Center for the Arts

Black & White Plus One Special Quilt Exhibit Presented by The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show at the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival

Dodge County Center for the Arts | 130 West Maple Avenue
Friday, June 12 – Sunday, June 14: 11 AM – 5 PM

Welcome to the Black & White Plus One Special Quilt Exhibit Presented by the Great Wisconsin Quilt Show, PBS Wisconsin and Nancy Zieman Productions. This extraordinary quilt show, held in conjunction with the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival, finds its home at the Dodge County Center for the Arts. Quilters hailing from both within and beyond Wisconsin eagerly participate in this challenge, showcasing their skill and artistry through their meticulously created quilts. As you explore the exhibit, prepare to be captivated by the artistry and dedication stitched into each quilt. Don’t miss the traditional bed turning event scheduled for Saturday at 11 am and 1 pm, where the rich stories behind these quilts come to life. Originating as a social tradition, bed turnings offer a unique opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and narrative behind each cherished quilt, as they are delicately revealed, one by one. Join us in celebrating the intersection of artistry, tradition, and community at this special event during the Wisconsin Arts and Peony Festival.  

USA250 Patriotic Quilt Exhibit at the Nancy Zieman Sewing Studio & Quilt Shop

Nancy Zieman Sewing Studio & Quilt Shop | 116 Front Street
Friday, June 12: 10 AM-5 PM
Saturday & Sunday, June 13 & 14: 10 AM – 4 PM

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with the USA250 Patriotic Quilt Exhibit by quiltmaker Cindy Wilson of Montello, WI, at the Nancy Zieman Sewing Studio & Quilt Shop Event Space in downtown Beaver Dam. This free exhibit features a stunning collection of patriotic quilts showcasing classic reds, whites, and blues, Americana-inspired patterns, stars, stripes, florals, and timeless patchwork designs that celebrate American pride, heritage, and community connection. 

Quilts are deeply beloved in America because they represent far more than functional bedding; they are tangible heirlooms woven with family history, community connection, and personal artistry. Rooted in the resourcefulness of early settlers, quilting remains a cherished cultural symbol of resilience, heritage, and comfort.

The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show 50 Years Ago - Back in 1973 Quilt Exhibit & Bed Turning in 2025