Local
Bay View’s Strange Scene pairs local art with tarot and workshops
Strange Scene opened in May at 2861 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., bringing metaphysical goods, tarot readings and a gallery for local artists to a space formerly occupied by another spiritual shop. Owner Maggie Sasso says the store is designed as a welcoming place for curiosity and connection.
A former metaphysical shop on South Kinnickinnic Avenue has a new occupant: Strange Scene, an artist-run store that combines occult and spiritual goods with local art, tarot readings and workshops.
The shop, at 2861 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. in Bay View, celebrated its grand opening in May. Its shelves carry products made by Milwaukee-area artists and vendors, including candles, ceramics, tarot cases, patches, artwork and spell kits, alongside herbs, crystals, incense and books.
Owner Maggie Sasso, who also goes by Madam Strange, said the space is meant to bring people together. “The people here really activate the space,” she said.
Strange Scene also hosts rotating exhibitions in its 4th Wall Gallery. The work of local artist Warren DeBoer was on view through November, according to the shop’s October announcement. A dedicated area is used for tarot readings, while a studio in the back hosts workshops on topics including runes, terrariums, pendulums and beginner tarot.
The shop occupies the location of Altered State of Mind, which closed in 2025. Sasso said the landlord was looking for another metaphysical business for the space. She brings an arts background to the venture: after moving to Wisconsin for college in 2007, she studied woodworking, metalsmithing and textile weaving, later teaching at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design and receiving a Mary L. Nohl Fellowship.
Strange Scene is open Monday, Wednesday and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.; Thursday from noon to 7 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. It is closed Tuesday.