In May, MMAC announced its inaugural Ignite the Spark award honorees. Ten Milwaukee educators were selected for their role in fostering supportive, engaging and inclusive learning environments that enable students to thrive both inside and outside of the classroom.  

Each honoree was presented with a framed piece of artwork by Milwaukee native Desharr Saddler to commemorate their hard work and contributions to Milwaukee’s next generation. 

Saddler, a graduate of Rufus King High School, went on to attend the Milwaukee School of Art and Design (MIAD), where he obtained his degree in product design. Saddler currently lives in Boston and works as a color design apprentice for New Balance. When MMAC approached Saddler about Ignite the Spark, he was excited to use his creative talents to honor teachers back home.  

“It truly means a lot to me to be able to give back to teachers, who are often the unsung heroes of our community. Looking back, I can see the direct impact of educators who believed in me, challenged me, and encouraged me to keep creating,” said Saddler. “The influence they have on us as children and teens stays with us throughout our entire lives. I hope this piece can serve as a small token of gratitude to those being honored and a reflection of the difference they make.”

During his interview with MMAC, Saddler emphasized the influence that Rufus King High School art teacher Mr. Graf had on his creative process. Mr. Graf taught Saddler that art is less about technique and more about the process – a lesson Saddler carries forward by incorporating original sketches into a finished piece.  

 Saddler’s Ignite the Spark artwork depicts a moment of realization – a moment when a student fully understands a concept or problem, thanks to the guidance of an educator. 

“The piece is about the transfer of knowledge between a teacher and their student, focusing on the moment a concept becomes understood. The monochrome, or black-and-white, portions symbolize confusion and the emotional weight that can come with not yet understanding something,” said Saddler. “As knowledge is shared, the ‘spark’ is ignited and color slowly begins to spread, representing the student’s newfound clarity and confidence. I wanted this piece to be a freeze-frame of sorts, capturing the moment where a teacher’s guidance helps a student see the world differently.” 

To learn more about the Ignite the Spark award program, visit: Educating Milwaukee’s next generation: 2026 MMAC Ignite the Spark honorees   – MMAC