👮♂️ If you’ve ever walked past the Baird Center in downtown Milwaukee and done a double-take at what you thought was a real security guard — you’re definitely not alone. Meet Syl, the hyperrealistic sculpture that’s fooled thousands of visitors with his incredibly lifelike appearance. From his polished shoes to the badge on his chest, Syl looks like he’s ready to check your event pass at any moment.
🎨 Created by Milwaukee-born artist Marc Sijan, Syl isn’t just a statue — he’s a tribute to the everyday heroes who serve and protect in quiet, watchful ways. Dressed in a crisp uniform and standing near the south entrance of the Baird Center off West Wisconsin Avenue, Syl’s posture, expression, and even the subtle skin details are so spot-on that many people have paused mid-step, done a double-take, and even tried talking to him before realizing the truth!
🖌️ Sijan is internationally known for his hyperrealist sculptures, many of which celebrate ordinary people — janitors, elderly folks, and public workers — the people who often go unseen but hold a community together. Syl has quickly become a beloved figure in Milwaukee, representing not just public safety, but a sense of pride in the people who quietly make the city work.
📸 He’s also become a bit of a photo-op legend.
✨ And there’s more! In a recent expansion of the Baird Center, Sijan introduced a second sculpture named Rosie from Guest Services. Rosie is just as lifelike and equally powerful — standing near the north building to represent the welcoming spirit of the center’s guest services staff. Together, Syl and Rosie bring warmth, familiarity, and a sense of Milwaukee’s down-to-earth personality to one of the city’s busiest hubs.
Meet Rosie
If you’ve visited Milwaukee’s Baird Center recently, you might have been greeted by a remarkably lifelike guest services attendant named Rosie. Standing near the north entrance, Rosie is not a real person but a hyperrealistic sculpture crafted by renowned artist Marc Sijan. Known for his incredibly detailed and lifelike sculptures, Sijan created Rosie to embody the warmth and hospitality that the Baird Center extends to its visitors.
🎨 The Artistry Behind Rosie
Marc Sijan, a Milwaukee-based artist, is celebrated for his hyperrealistic sculptures that often pay tribute to everyday individuals. Rosie is no exception. Dressed in a crisp uniform with a name tag and holding a clipboard, she stands poised to assist, capturing the essence of a dedicated guest services professional. The attention to detail—from the texture of her clothing to the expression on her face—makes Rosie a standout piece in the Baird Center’s art collection.
🏛️ Enhancing the Baird Center Experience
Rosie’s presence complements another of Sijan’s sculptures, Syl, a security guard stationed at the south entrance of the Baird Center. Together, they symbolize the center’s commitment to safety and hospitality. These sculptures not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the venue but also create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
The inclusion of Rosie and Syl aligns with the Baird Center’s broader initiative to showcase art that reflects the community’s diversity and spirit. The center’s recent expansion features works from over 20 artists, many of whom are local to Milwaukee, further emphasizing its dedication to celebrating local talent and culture.
So next time you’re downtown, stop by and say hello to Syl and Rosie. They may not answer back, but they are always on duty — standing tall, watching over visitors, and reminding us that even the stillest figures can tell powerful stories. 🙏🏽
