The Land of OOOOOz

The map of the Land of OOOOOz is no ordinary map. Some say it’s a treasure map. Others say that it’s a road map. What I can tell you is that the map will take you to huge mansions, grand palaces and you will see the most amazing art in all of Lake Country. The map has a road made of yellow bricks that will lead you to the red carpet. Where you will get glimpses of the world premiere of the 1939 movie “The Wizard of Oz” in all its technicolor while experiencing the natural beauty and history of Oconomowoc.

Map Key

1. Premiere Alley - Strand Theater

2. Village Green

3. Spirit of Oconomowoc Sculpture

4. Veterans Memorial Park

5. Rockwell Park aka “Rainbow Falls”

6. Knollward Mansion aka “Castle of the Tin Woodman”

7. Pine Terrace aka “Ruby Palace”

8. Fowler Park aka “Munchkins Playground”

9. LaBelle Cemetery

10. St. Paul Church

11. Oconomowoc Post Card Mural

12. The Heart of Lake Country Sculpture

13. Performing Arts Center Sculpture Melody aka “Dorothy”

14. Oconomowoc Depot

15. Post Office Mural

16. Spirit of Oconomowoc Mural

17. Community Center aka “Wicked Witch Castle”

18. Where the Waters Meet Sculpture

19. City Beach Bandshell

20. Pedestrian Tunnel Mural

21. Skatepark

22. Imagination Station aka “Glinda’s Castle”

Start at the middle of Oz Plaza at City Hall and follow the yellow brick road with Dorothy and her friends to an amazing adventure in time and wonder as you, your family and friends walk the streets of “The Land of OOOOOz.”

As I was creating my map of “The Land of Oz” I like Dorothy in the movie Wizard of Oz realized that everything that I was looking for was right in my backyard the whole time. My painting soon became my map of “The Land of OOOOOz” Oconomowoc my hometown and backyard!

I learned on my journey of life that “there is no place like home” and I need to embrace change especially during the biggest storms of life. To face my fears, head on with my maker by my side. As Dorothy said “Toto, I don’t think we are in Kanas anymore”.

Before a tornado hits your home find your power, know who your true friends are and never stop learning. “You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it yourself. “Wicked Witch of the West.

Sincerely,

Paul German

Aspiring Artist & Storyteller

(262)370-6177

P.S. My hope is that my map can be your guide as you, your family and friends experience the history and art of Oconomowoc in a way that brings the movie of the Wizard of Oz to life bystepping in a new world full of lively color and happiness.