About two years ago, a small group of dedicated volunteers began discussing a public art project to be sponsored by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. In the summer of 2002, the city of Milwaukee, WI, displayed dozens of fictitious critters known as "Beasties" in attraction points throughout the city. The "Beastie", born to Wisconsin, has brought special meaning and uniqueness to the community. This rare critter was the culmination of teamwork, and the support of the residents and business owners in Milwaukee. Each Beastie was adopted by a Beastie Buddy sponsor (i.e. individual or a local company), decorated and then exhibited. The project had a wonderful impact, and emphasized Milwaukee's sense of community, pride, and culture by combining music and visual art.