Marc Manke

Marc Manke is an Assistant Professor of Art at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL), specializing in Graphic Design, Textile/Garment Design, and Sculpture. His research explores rural queer identities through textile and sculptural works, addressing issues such as healthcare access and cultural tensions in rural communities. He holds an MFA from Maine College of Art (2019) and a BFA from Minneapolis College of Art and Design (2011).

Education:

• Master of Fine Art - Studio Art, Maine College of Art (2019)
• Bachelor of Fine Art - Sculpture, Minneapolis College of Art and Design (2011)

Research Focus: Manke’s work investigates rural LGBTQ+ experiences through textiles and sculpture, blending personal narratives with broader sociocultural critiques. Recent projects include camouflage textile designs addressing queer visibility in conservative environments and collaborative community art initiatives.

Recent Contributions: Co-authored a 2024 article in the Marketing Libraries Journal on crowdfunding strategies for academic libraries. His collaborative exhibition Glitch is the Soul of the Machine (2023) explored digital art’s intersection with daily life.

Awards:

• 2023 Preservation Alliance of La Crosse Heritage Award (for the Hear, Here Project)

Teaching & Service: Teaches courses in digital art, printmaking, and design at UWL. Served as a Library Services Assistant at Murphy Library (2012–2022) and co-organized the 2024 Art Open House exhibition.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with Murphy Library colleagues on interdisciplinary projects linking art and community engagement.