billy

Billy Judge Baldus’s journey to screen printing excellence has been an adventure. Hailing from the Milwaukee area, Billy has always stood apart—too wild for just “designer,” too precise for just “artist.” A graduate of the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design and a veteran of the creative industry, he’s spent over 20 years sharpening his skills by crafting eye-catching work for top-tier clients in marketing, design, and beyond.

From the office to the stage… Billy valiantly fronted the surf-punk-rock band Uncle Larry, releasing a string of albums, music videos, and explosive live shows that blurred the line between rock concert and performance art. With wild costumes, theatrical stage sets, and eye-popping gig posters, Uncle Larry had success in the Midwest scene—and an outlet where Billy’s passion for visuals, performance and music exploded into new dimensions.

A skilled builder, Billy grew up working alongside his grandfather, Art Judge, at the family’s business—Judge Chair Company—where he developed a hands-on approach and a deep respect for craftsmanship. That early experience shaped his ability to build and repair just about anything, from old houses and RVs to screen printing presses and backyard fences. Eventually, those skills inspired him to launch a successful side venture: a fence-building company called Fence Bros.

Always chasing adventure, Billy and his family have roamed far and wide in a top-of-the-line 1985 RV—living out road trip dreams and drawing inspiration from America’s winding backroads, with a special love for bizarre roadside attractions and offbeat gems along the way.

The physical side of screen printing is a natural match for Billy’s energy. A lifelong athlete, he stood out in art school for his passion for competitive sports. He built serious core strength training for—and completing—the grueling American Birkebeiner cross-country ski race, year after year. And true to his performer spirit, he even spent time as a professional hoop dancer (yes, with a hula hoop).

When he's not printing, designing, playing music or building you’ll find him snorkeling, hiking, playing games, and hanging out with his wife and kids—his greatest collaborators and constant creative fuel.

More Shops Upstairs is the culmination of all of it—Billy’s design chops, his musical energy, his builder’s grit, and his imaginative spark—all brought together in vibrant, hand-pulled screen prints. His work has been featured in many galleries and independent shows throughout. Each piece a bold mix of humor, attitude, and heartfelt storytelling. It’s art that refuses to fit into a box—just like Billy.

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Xavier Mercado