Milwaukee county zoo
ADVENTURE AFRICA
DONOR RECOGNITION SCULPTURE
Spolar Studio designed and fabricated a custom outdoor donor recognition installation for the Adventure Africa exhibit at the Milwaukee County Zoo. By combining durable HDPE panels with custom corten steel supports, the project provides lasting donor recognition while seamlessly integrating with the exhibit's architecture, branding, and natural environment.
Recognition that belongs
When the Zoological Society of Milwaukee began planning donor recognition for the new Adventure Africa exhibit, they wanted something that felt like a natural extension of the environment rather than an object placed within it. The recognition needed to celebrate donor support while remaining consistent with the exhibit's established branding, materials, and immersive visitor experience.
Equally important, the installation needed to withstand the realities of an outdoor environment with as little ongoing maintenance as possible.
the challenge
Outdoor donor recognition presents a unique set of challenges. Materials must withstand sun, rain, temperature fluctuations, and years of exposure without requiring frequent refinishing or replacement. The Zoological Society sought a solution that would remain attractive and legible over time while minimizing maintenance demands on staff.
As we evaluated potential materials, it became clear that many traditional approaches would require periodic upkeep. We needed a solution that could endure the elements while maintaining the visual quality expected within a major destination exhibit.
the solution
After extensive exploration, our team identified high-density polyethylene (HDPE) as the ideal material for the project. HDPE offered exceptional durability, color stability, and resistance to moisture, making it uniquely suited for the demanding outdoor environment of Adventure Africa.
While the material solved many long-term maintenance concerns, it introduced a new set of fabrication challenges. Unlike many traditional materials, HDPE cannot be painted and is notoriously difficult to bond with adhesives. Every detail of the project, from fabrication methods to assembly techniques, required careful consideration and creative problem solving.
Engineering for the Environment
To further reinforce the connection to the exhibit, we partnered with Inscribed Engineering to design and fabricate custom corten steel support structures. These supports were intentionally weathered and rusted prior to installation, creating a material palette that felt authentic to the landscape and architecture of Adventure Africa.
The combination of HDPE and corten steel created a system that was both visually integrated and exceptionally durable. Every component was selected and engineered with longevity in mind, reducing maintenance requirements while preserving the design intent for years to come.
The Result
The completed installation provides lasting recognition for donors while supporting the immersive character of the Adventure Africa exhibit. Rather than competing with the environment, the donor recognition feels embedded within it—an extension of the exhibit's architecture, materials, and storytelling.
By embracing the challenges of unconventional materials and developing custom fabrication solutions, the project achieved its primary goal: creating donor recognition that is durable, low maintenance, and fully integrated into the visitor experience.
