Milwaukee artist celebrates 175 years of being “Rooted in Tradition” at the Wisconsin State Fair
WEST ALLIS, Wis. – March 25, 2026 – Wisconsin State Fair and Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation officials are excited to announce the 2026 Fairtastic Grand Champion Artist: Milwaukeean Riley Peters. A commemoration of the Competitive Exhibits 2026 theme, “Rooted in Tradition,” Peters’ piece overflows with warmth and nostalgia.
The artwork depicts a colossal potato shaped like Wisconsin that is rooted in the traditions of agriculture, entertainment and memory making while spotlighting a beautifully rendered Wisconsin State Fair ribbon. As Wisconsin State Fair officials invite everyone to “Celebrate Together” for the 175th anniversary this year, Peters’ poster will offer Fairgoers a chance to bring home a piece of history.
Peters is a graduate of Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design and currently resides in Milwaukee. While Peters primary medium is digital art, their sketchbook is full of traditional media including watercolor, colored pencil and ink. They enjoy illustrating animals and educational topics. Outside of art, Peters enjoys reading, hiking and playing board games.
In a highly competitive field, two other artists were recognized for their amazing artistry: Emily Bennett of Appleton and Katie French of Middleton were awarded as the two finalists. A panel of three qualified judges selected Peters as the 2026 Grand Champion Fairtastic Artist earlier this spring.
Commemorative posters and other items featuring Peters’ artwork will be available for purchase at the 2026 Wisconsin State Fair. Proceeds of the Fairtastic Poster support the Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation, an independent 501c3 dedicated to preserving State Fair Park, supporting year-round art and education programs, and enhancing the Fair experience for all visitors. Those interested in learning more about the Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation can visit www.WSFPFoundation.org.
About the Wisconsin State Fair
The 2026 Wisconsin State Fair, presented by T-Mobile, will take place August 6–16, 2026. The State Fair offers a unique experience to all who attend and is an exceptional value. Enjoy dozens of FREE entertainment stages, exciting rides and games in SpinCity, thousands of animals, endless family activities, events, contests, shopping vendors, and culinary delights. For more information, visit WiStateFair.com or follow us on social media.
About the Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation
The Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit, was founded in 1995 and helps the Wisconsin State Fair to grow. The partnership between the Wisconsin State Fair and the Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation has fueled more than two decades of improvements at the State Fair Park, including recent capital improvement projects in Central Mall and Central Park. The Foundation also supports agriculture education and art programming that makes the State Fair such a special place. All Foundation work is made possible thanks to the generosity of our donors. To learn more about or donate to the Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation, please visit WSFPfoundation.org.
