Two Print Sources

Originally, the Milwaukee Art Museum consisted of a somewhat basic concrete structure overlooking lake Michigan. This structure was designed by architect Eero Saarinen in 1957 and partially served as a war memorial with an art gallery. In 1975, architect David Kahler set out to expand the structure in order to have a larger exhibit. It was until 1994 that the Trustees of the Milwaukee Art Museum hired architect Santiago Calatrava and transformed the simple museum into the white bird-like structure that we know and see today. In addition to the modern Milwaukee Art Museum, Calatrava added the Remain Bridge that connects the museum to the William F. O'Donnell Park in Downtown Milwaukee.  

In the following book based on Calatrava's works, a moment is taken to explain what inspired the certain wing shaped effect on the building. He denies that there was any biomorphic (bird-like) inspiration for his work although many seem to identify a seagull with the museum since it overlooks the large Lake Michigan and does in fact look like a seagull. Recognition is also given to the architect Dan Kiley, who is responsible for the gardens that surround the structure enhancing its beauty. 

Lefaivre, Liane, and Alexander Tzonis. Santiago Calatrava. 1.st ed. Milano: Motta Architettura, 2009. Print.

Jodidio, Philip, and Santiago Calatrava. Santiago Calatrava. Köln: Taschen, 2003. Print.