The 2026–27 season celebrates American stories, sounds, and movement through artist residencies in Quad Cities schools and community spaces

As communities across the country mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, Quad City Arts will celebrate the 53rd season of its Visiting Artist Series with an exploration of the stories, sounds and cultural traditions that have taken shape in America.

From Indigenous storytelling traditions that long predate the founding of the United States to blues, jazz, hip-hop and breaking, the 2026–27 season brings together artists working in forms deeply connected to the American experience. Through performances, workshops and conversations in schools and community spaces throughout the Quad Cities, visiting artists will share where these traditions come from, how they have evolved and how artists continue to carry them forward today.

The season also makes room for a distinctly American collision of influences: a punk-rock polka band from Ohio.

“There’s probably nothing more American than a punk-rock polka band out of Ohio,” said Quad City Arts Executive Director Ben Gougeon. “What I love about this season is that students won’t just learn about these traditions in a classroom. They’ll meet the artists, hear the music, see the movement and experience these traditions firsthand. We're also in the process of building some deeper, more impactful residency experiences that will resonate far beyond this season. That kind of connection is what the Visiting Artist Series has been creating in the Quad Cities for 53 seasons”

The Visiting Artist Series is built around bringing professional artists directly to people throughout the Quad Cities. During each residency, artists spend several days performing and engaging with students in schools while also connecting with audiences at community centers, libraries, and senior communities.

These experiences give students opportunities to meet working artists, ask questions, and encounter cultural traditions they may not otherwise experience firsthand. They also demonstrate that the art forms students encounter today have histories — shaped by generations of people, places and communities — and that those traditions continue to change as new artists contribute their own voices.

Community engagements carry those conversations beyond the classroom, creating opportunities for people of different ages and backgrounds to experience professional artists together. By bringing artists into spaces people already know and use, the Visiting Artist Series helps make cultural experiences accessible throughout the region.

2026–27 Visiting Artist Series Lineup

Frank Cesario | Puppetry and Puppet Building | Aug. 14, 2026
The season began with a special partnership with Fresh Films featuring puppeteer, puppet builder, and puppet wrangler Frank Cesario. Cesario led a hands-on workshop with participants in TMBC Lincoln Center’s Camp Amp, sharing the creativity and craftsmanship behind bringing puppet characters to life. His credits include PBS KIDS’ Donkey Hodie, and he served as puppet wrangler and secondary puppeteer for the Fresh Films feature “Groundhog Gary: 6 More Weeks,” which premiered at the Alternating Currents Festival.

Leland Faulkner | Native American Storytelling | Sept. 21–25, 2026
Faulkner brings storytelling rooted in Indigenous traditions to the Quad Cities, using story and performance to explore heritage, imagination, and the ways knowledge and culture are carried across generations. His residency begins the season’s exploration of American traditions with stories connected to the people and cultures whose histories on this continent precede the United States itself.

Faulkner will present a special public performance of his one-man show Dreamcatcher at the Putnam Museum on Friday, Sept. 25. Times and ticket information to be announced, and will be available through www.putnam.org.

Dusky Waters | New Orleans Blues and Roots | Nov. 10–13, 2026
Rooted in the musical heritage of New Orleans and the American South, Dusky Waters connects audiences with blues and roots traditions shaped by Black American history, community, and generations of musicians. The residency explores the relationship between music and place and the lasting influence of these traditions on American music.

Brass Queens | All-Female Jazz Brass Band | Feb. 9–12, 2027
Brass Queens brings the sound and energy of the American brass-band tradition into the present. The all-female ensemble draws on jazz and brass traditions while showing how contemporary musicians continue to reinterpret and expand them.

Brass Queens will also present a public performance to be announced at a later date.

Chardon Polka Band | Punk-Rock Polka | April 13–16, 2027
Ohio’s Chardon Polka Band takes a tradition brought to America by European immigrants and gives it an unmistakably contemporary American twist. By combining polka with the energy of punk rock and influences from across popular music, the group offers a playful example of what can happen when cultural traditions meet, change and take on new identities.

Movement Revolution Dance Crew | Hip-Hop and Breaking | May 10–14, 2027
Movement Revolution Dance Crew closes the season with hip-hop and breaking, art forms born from Black and Latino communities in New York City and now practiced around the world. Through movement and performance, the crew introduces audiences to the creativity, expression and community at the heart of hip-hop culture.

Taken together, the 2026–27 season offers an opportunity to consider America at 250 through the artists, communities and traditions that have shaped its culture. Indigenous storytelling, blues, jazz, immigrant musical traditions, hip-hop and breaking each tell a different part of that story. The Visiting Artist Series brings those traditions into direct conversation with Quad Cities students and residents while celebrating the artists who continue to shape what American culture looks and sounds like today.

Now entering its 53rd season, Quad City Arts’ Visiting Artist Series has a long history of connecting nationally and internationally recognized artists with people throughout the region. By placing artists directly in schools and community settings, the program gives thousands of area residents opportunities to experience professional artists where they learn, work and gather.

Scheduling is now open for the 2026–27 Visiting Artist Series. Teachers, school administrators, and community sites are invited to request performances, workshops, and other artist experiences for their schools. Scheduling requests should be submitted by Sept. 4 to be considered for the 2026–27 season.

For more information about the Visiting Artist Series and the 2026–27 season, visit Quad City Arts at quadcityarts.com.

The 2026–27 season of the Visiting Artist Series is powered by Quad City Arts, and supported by Scott County Regional Authority, National Endowment for the Arts, and the Rock Island Community Foundation.
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​This week, walls across the Quad Cities are becoming canvases as Mural Fest returns as part of Alternating Currents, the annual downtown arts festival bringing music, film, comedy, visual art, and live performances to communities throughout the region.

Quad City Arts is proud to partner with Alternating Currents to bring Mural Fest to life, giving festivalgoers the opportunity to watch professional artists create large-scale murals in real time. Instead of only seeing the finished piece, visitors can stop by throughout the week and watch each mural evolve from a blank wall into a lasting work of public art.

Mural Fest is a collaborative effort that brings together the strengths of Downtown Davenport Partnership and Quad City Arts.

Downtown Davenport Partnership, Downtown Rock Island Association, and the Downtown Bettendorf Organization help to activate downtown spaces, connect businesses, and build the larger festival experience. Quad City Arts leads the artist engagement and public art side of the project—from recruiting muralists and coordinating artist logistics to helping artists navigate the process of creating large-scale work in public spaces.

It's work that builds on decades of Quad City Arts' experience commissioning and managing public art projects throughout the region.

This year's Mural Fest features four artists creating new works throughout the Quad Cities:

• Brando Punk — Bent River Brewing, 512 24th St., Rock Island
• Atlanta Dawn — Klemme's Motorsports, 301 E. 3rd St., Davenport
• Andray Kravtsov — Trash Can Annie / Ragged Records, 311 E. 2nd St., Davenport
• Brian Wentworth — My Crystal Portal, 1737 Grant St., Bettendorf

The mix of local and visiting artists is an important part of Mural Fest. It gives artists opportunities to meet one another, exchange ideas and techniques, build relationships, and learn what's happening in the broader public art community. At the same time, visiting artists bring new styles and perspectives to the Quad Cities and help showcase our region as a place that values creativity and invests in its public spaces.

One of the things we love most about public art is its accessibility. You don't need a ticket, an invitation, or even plans to see it. Public art meets people where they already are.

​Photography courtesy of AJV Original - Wedding & Special Events Photographer - Antonio Varela
www.ajvoriginal.com

​ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — August 10, 2026 -- The Quad City Arts Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Gougeon as the organization’s next Executive Director, effective August 10, 2026.

Gougeon brings more than 30 years of experience working in the arts, both as a theatre and film artist and in leadership and administrative roles with nonprofit organizations in Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, and New York. His professional background also includes management roles in the hospitality and retail industries, bringing additional experience in operations, customer service, and team leadership. As Executive Director, he will lead Quad City Arts in advancing its mission to enrich the quality of life in the Quad Cities through the arts by supporting artists, expanding arts education, and creating meaningful public art experiences throughout the region.

The Quad City Arts Board of Directors launched its search for the organization’s next Executive Director on May 21, 2026, beginning a comprehensive process to identify the organization’s next leader. Led by the Board’s Executive Director Search Committee, the search included outreach to qualified candidates, interviews, and thoughtful evaluation to identify a leader with the experience, vision, and collaborative approach needed to guide Quad City Arts into its next chapter.

The Board’s search committee sought a leader who would honor Quad City Arts’ longstanding mission while strengthening the organization’s capacity to serve artists, students, audiences, and communities throughout the Quad Cities. The appointment reflects the Board’s confidence in Gougeon’s ability to lead the organization with integrity, collaboration, and a commitment to our community.

“Throughout this search, our Board remained focused on finding the right leader for Quad City Arts—someone who shares our commitment to artists, education, and community partnerships,” said Jenni Swanson, President of the Quad City Arts Board of Directors. “We are excited to welcome Ben as our next Executive Director and are confident he will build upon the strong foundation created by our staff, volunteers, board members, artists, donors, and community partners. Together, we look forward to expanding opportunities for the arts and continuing to serve the Quad Cities with creativity, collaboration, and excellence.”

Gougeon said he is honored to serve the organization and community in an expanded role.

“Quad City Arts has a remarkable history of connecting people through creativity and strengthening our communities through the arts,” said Gougeon. “In my previous role, I loved being able to serve as a connector and create partnerships with the many organizations doing necessary work throughout our region. I look forward to continuing to work alongside our talented staff, dedicated board members, artists, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and community partners to expand access to the arts and build upon the organization’s strong foundation. Together, we have an exciting opportunity to strengthen the impact of the arts throughout the Quad Cities for years to come.”

Prior to this appointment, Gougeon served as Events Coordinator and Director of Community Engagement at Quad City Arts, where he oversaw the Visiting Artist Series, Chalk Art Fest, Riverssance Festival of Fine Art, Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program, Arts Dollars Grant program, and numerous public art initiatives, including the upcoming Tapestry installation in downtown Moline. He also served as host of Talking Art, a podcast produced in partnership with WVIK, where he helped share the stories of artists, arts organizations, and creative work happening throughout the region. His knowledge of the organization, relationships throughout the community, and commitment to the mission provide a strong foundation for continued growth and innovation.

Each year, Quad City Arts enriches the region through public art, arts education, exhibitions, performances, artist support initiatives, and Festival of Trees—its signature fundraising event that helps make arts programming possible throughout the Quad Cities. Through partnerships with municipalities, schools, businesses, and community organizations, Quad City Arts continues to make the arts accessible and impactful across eastern Iowa and western Illinois.

Quad City Arts invites the community to attend the dedication of the new EveryChild mural on Friday, July 10, at 9:00 a.m. at EveryChild, 420 23rd St., Rock Island. 

Created by apprentices in Quad City Arts' Metro Arts Apprenticeship Program under the direction of lead artist Sarah Robb, the mural features paper cranes flowing from a radiant sunburst surrounding a parent and child. The artwork welcomes visitors to EveryChild's recently opened facility and reflects themes of hope, growth, and community. 

“EveryChild was proud to partner with Quad City Arts’ Metro Arts Apprentice Program to create this mural. Before moving to Rock Island, we were often known as the building with the mural in Moline. It became a recognizable symbol of who we are and the work we do in the community. As we established our new home, we wanted to create that same sense of identity and connection. We wanted people to see the mural and immediately know they had arrived at EveryChild. This building exists for the children and families we serve, and the mural is a reflection of the hope, resilience, and support that EveryChild provides every day” said Nicole Mann, President of EveryChild. 

The dedication celebrates one of several public art projects being completed through Quad City Arts' Metro Arts Apprenticeship Program, which runs from June 8 through July 23. The program provides paid summer employment opportunities that connect young artists with professional artists through mural creation, poetry, publishing, and public performance. Apprentices gain hands-on workplace experience, develop artistic and professional skills, build portfolios, and create work that has a lasting impact on the community, helping make the Quad Cities a more vibrant place to live. 

The community is also invited to celebrate the accomplishments of this year's apprentices at the annual Metro Arts Showcase on Thursday, July 23, at 6 p.m. in the TMBC Lincoln Center Auditorium, 318 E. Seventh St., Davenport. The free event will feature original artwork, poetry, and community projects created throughout the summer and offer the opportunity to meet the apprentices and experience firsthand how creativity is helping shape the next generation of artists and leaders in the Quad Cities. 

Ben Gougeon, Quad City Arts' Director of Community Engagement, credits Metro Arts with helping shape the careers of young artists, with many alumni going on to successful creative careers. "Metro Arts gives young people paid opportunities to develop artistic and professional skills while creating meaningful work for our community. Whether they pursue careers in the arts or another field, they're gaining valuable experience and leaving a lasting impact through public art and community partnerships. Nothing makes me prouder than seeing a Metro Arts alum leading creative projects of their own in the Quad Cities." 

​This year's program is made possible through support from the Illinois Arts Council, the City of Rock Island, the City of Davenport, the Brissman Foundation, the Davenport Noon Optimist Club, and the Morency Foundation. 
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Poetry Apprenticeship 
Poet and educator Aubrey Barnes returns for his fourth year as lead artist for the Metro Arts Poetry Apprenticeship. Participants spend the summer writing, revising, illustrating, and publishing original poetry that will be compiled into a professionally produced chapbook. Apprentices also develop public speaking and performance skills through community readings and performances, sharing their original work and building confidence as creative voices in the Quad Cities. 

Throughout the program, apprentices work collaboratively to refine their writing, explore new forms of creative expression, and gain firsthand experience in the publishing process—from developing original pieces to preparing them for print. The program culminates in the annual Metro Arts Showcase, where apprentices share their work with family, friends, and the community, celebrating a summer of artistic growth and achievement. 

By providing young writers with paid opportunities to create, perform, and publish their work, the Metro Arts Poetry Apprenticeship empowers participants to see themselves as artists and storytellers while strengthening the cultural fabric of the Quad Cities. 

Public Murals 
This summer, Metro Arts apprentices are creating three public art projects that will bring new murals to community spaces across the Quad Cities. Working alongside professional artists, apprentices gain hands-on experience in design, collaboration, and large-scale public art production while contributing artwork that celebrates local stories, organizations, and community identity. 

In addition to the newly completed EveryChild mural in Rock Island, lead artist Sarah Robb is guiding apprentices on a second project at The River's Edge, 700 W. River Drive, Davenport. Funded through the City of Davenport, the installation consists of six panels highlighting the fun, diverse programs and activities offered through Davenport Parks and Recreation. Completion of the panels is anticipated by July 10, with installation and dedication at a later date. 

For the first time, artist Amanda Stout is leading Metro Arts apprentices in creating two murals at the TMBC Lincoln Center, 318 E. Seventh St., Davenport. Located in the hallway outside the auditorium, the murals celebrate the influence and legacy of Black music and Black film. This project is supported by the Davenport Noon Optimist Club and the Morency Foundation and is scheduled for completion on July 22, with a dedication during the Metro Arts Showcase on July 23. 

Together, these projects demonstrate the power of public art to transform spaces, tell community stories, and provide young artists with meaningful opportunities to leave a lasting mark on the Quad Cities. 
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Quad City Arts has facilitated the leasing and installation of public sculptures in the Quad Cities since 2002. This year, our organization facilitated the installation of 32 sculptures in addition to 3 that remain on display from previous years. New sculptures were installed between May 28-June 18. Sculptures are chosen by committees representing each city or venue and are leased for one year from sculptors across the country. All the sculptures are for sale. Information on price can be found on the plaque at the base of each sculpture. All newly installed sculptures, along with permanent sculptures purchased from past exhibits, can be viewed on Quad City Arts’ website.

Public art transforms everyday spaces into places of discovery, conversation, and community pride. These sculptures invite residents and visitors alike to slow down, explore their surroundings, and experience art in unexpected places. They create landmarks that strengthen a community's sense of identity, support local businesses by encouraging people to spend more time in commercial districts, and make the Quad Cities a more vibrant and welcoming place to live, work, and visit.

The most exciting part of the process is watching a Hampton Cranes operator use their boom to lift a sculpture from an artist’s vehicle, hoist it high in the air, and skillfully bring it down gently onto a concrete pad, as directed by the artist who created it. The artist then drills holes into the concrete and secures the sculpture. (Hampton Cranes generously donates their services for the heaviest pieces.) Rock Island has leased 5 sculptures to enhance parks, libraries and the downtown area. The Moline Public Art Commission has chosen 5 sculptures that have been placed along 5th Ave. in Moline, plus one near the Kone Building. Bettendorf rented 12 sculptures to draw attention to local businesses, including 4 for the Geifman First Equity business park. The Downtown Davenport Partnership has chosen 6 sculptures to bring new interest to their collection of 10 permanent sculptures along 2nd Street between Western Ave. and Pershing. The City of Clinton joined the program in 2024 with the selection of 6 new sculptures each year. With positive feedback from the public, Clinton has purchased two bronze sculptures by James Haire for their public libraries and has leased 6 new sculptures installed near the riverfront.

We encourage everyone to share their experiences and interactions with the sculptures on social media using #QuadCityArts.
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​For 56 years, Quad City Arts has been committed to enriching our community through accessible arts experiences while prioritizing the safety and well-being of the people we serve.

The organization recently accepted the resignation of its interim executive director. At this time, there is no indication that any Quad City Arts programs, participants, students, apprentices, or community members were involved in or affected by the alleged conduct.

The safety and trust of our community remain our highest priorities. As part of its commitment to strong governance and a safe, welcoming environment, Quad City Arts will continue to evaluate and strengthen its policies and procedures.
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All scheduled programs, events, and services will continue as planned. As this is an ongoing matter involving private individuals and external processes, Quad City Arts will have no further comment at this time.

Jenni Swanson
Board President
Quad City Arts

Windborn Group and Quad City Arts Announce Artist Selected for New Public Mural in Downtown Aledo 

​The Windborn Group and Quad City Arts are pleased to announce that artist Madeline Dieters has been selected to create a new public mural on the South side of 112 E. Main St. in historic downtown Aledo. Supported by the Illinois Arts Council's America's 250th Public Art Grant, the mural is part of a statewide initiative celebrating Illinois in 2026. Quad City Arts was selected as one of only 20 Regional Arts Partners across the state to participate in the invitation-only program. Through projects like this mural, the initiative highlights Illinois' creative legacy and demonstrates how public art can strengthen communities, foster civic pride, and contribute to local economic vitality. 

At just 19 years old, Dieters already has an impressive portfolio of large-scale public artworks. She began work on the mural June 16 and is expected to complete the project in time for a public unveiling on July 3. 
The mural's design honors two influential female artists with ties to Aledo: Gertrude Abercrombie, the celebrated surrealist painter often referred to as the "Queen of the Bohemian Artists," and Doris Lee, whose paintings captured scenes of everyday American life and earned national recognition throughout the 20th century. 

"Thankful for the partnership with Quad City Arts and the State of Illinois in celebrating the history of visual arts in our community with this mural featuring two prominent Aledo artists," said W.J. Albertson, with the Windborn Group, a real estate development and community revitalization organization. 

By highlighting the accomplishments of Abercrombie and Lee, the mural celebrates the artistic contributions of Illinois women while connecting local history to a broader story of creativity and cultural impact. 
The project reflects a shared commitment by the Windborn Group, Quad City Arts and community partners to invest in public spaces that inspire civic pride, encourage cultural tourism and create meaningful connections between people and place. 

Community members are invited to watch the mural take shape over the coming weeks. The completed artwork will be unveiled on July 3 in conjunction with Aledo's Independence Day celebrations. Additional event details will be announced as plans are finalized.
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On a Friday afternoon, more than 100 supporters gathered at Schwiebert Riverfront Park in Rock Island to celebrate the dedication of "Come Ride With Us," a new public sculpture honoring longtime cycling advocates Dean and Deb Mathias. 
 
Designed by Orion artist and illustrator Paul Lange, the metal bicycle sculpture now stands alongside the bike path that winds through the park—a fitting tribute to two individuals whose passion for cycling helped shape the culture and connectivity of our region. 
 
While the sculpture honors Dean and Deb Mathias, it also serves as a reminder of the important role public art plays in defining a community. Public art does more than beautify a space; it reflects local values, celebrates community stories, and creates meaningful connections between people and place. Projects like "Come Ride With Us" preserve local history while strengthening community pride by recognizing the individuals whose dedication and leadership have helped shape the Quad Cities. Through works like this, public art becomes a lasting expression of our shared identity—inviting reflection, inspiring conversation, and celebrating the people and stories that make our region unique. 
 
For decades, Dean and Deb Mathias have been champions of cycling in the Quad Cities, helping build a stronger and more connected cycling community through advocacy, leadership, and volunteerism. Their efforts have encouraged people of all ages to experience the benefits of cycling while promoting safer, more accessible trails and pathways throughout the region. Dean, affectionately known as "Bareback" within the cycling community, has long been recognized as a passionate advocate and organizer, while Deb's dedication and support have made her an equally valued part of the region's cycling culture. Together, they have inspired countless riders and helped create a welcoming cycling community that continues to grow today. 

The artwork itself was designed by Orion artist and illustrator Paul Lange, whose vision for the piece was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of project partners, skilled fabricators, and community supporters, resulting in a sculpture that reflects the spirit of cycling and community connection. Through "Come Ride With Us," he translated Dean and Deb Mathias' legacy into a visual landmark that honors their contributions while inviting visitors to reflect on the importance of community, recreation, and connection. 
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Public art rarely begins with the finished piece. The development of "Come Ride With Us" included concept sketches, design revisions, site studies, and fabrication planning, all working toward a shared vision. These images highlight the collaborative process behind creating public art and the many decisions that help transform an idea into a meaningful community landmark. These process images, provided by Paul Lange, offer a glimpse into the creative development that took shape over seven months before becoming the public landmark visitors see today.
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Quad City Arts was honored to help facilitate this project under the leadership of project coordinator Dawn Wohlford-Metallo, working in collaboration with artist Paul Lange and sculptor David Zahn. Bringing a public art project from concept to installation requires collaboration, coordination, fundraising, artist engagement, and community support. Our role was to help guide that process, ensuring the vision for honoring Dean and Deb could become a lasting addition to the riverfront. 
 
At Quad City Arts, we believe public art is an essential part of a vibrant region. Whether it's a sculpture, mural, installation, or artist-designed gathering space, public art adds personality to our communities and strengthens our sense of place. It transforms ordinary spaces into destinations and tells stories that might otherwise go untold. 
 
As communities across the Quad Cities continue to invest in public spaces, Quad City Arts remains committed to helping facilitate projects that celebrate local artists, honor community leaders, and create lasting cultural assets for generations to come. 
 
We extend our congratulations to Dean and Deb Mathias, our appreciation to artists David Zahn and Paul Lange, and our gratitude to the many supporters whose contributions made "Come Ride With Us" possible. 
 
Public art has the power to tell local stories, celebrate community identity, and create spaces that people connect with for generations. Quad City Arts is proud to help facilitate projects that enrich our region through creativity and collaboration. If your community, organization, community group, or municipality is interested in exploring a public art project, we welcome the opportunity to help turn that vision into reality. From artist selection and project coordination to fundraising support and installation guidance, Quad City Arts can help navigate the process and create meaningful projects that reflect the character and stories of the communities they serve. 
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Are you a Quad Cities native? What brought you to the Quad Cities?
I am a Quad Cities native. I grew up in De Witt but was open enrolled in Davenport schools. I stuck around and went to Augustana for undergrad.

What is your biggest achievement/goal/moment of success to date – personal or professional? 
One of my biggest achievements has been stepping into leadership roles in the nonprofit and policy sectors and continuing to grow my impact in the community. Early in my career, I had the opportunity to work on public health and policy initiatives at both the state and national levels, across Iowa, Illinois, and California, which gave me a broad perspective on systems change and community impact. In my previous roles, I’m proud to have helped support the passage of local tobacco safety ordinances, educated community members on important public health issues, and advocated for policies that create healthier, more equitable communities. I’m also proud to have earned both my Master of Public Health (MPH) and Master of Public Administration (MPA), which continue to shape how I create meaningful change.

How did you first learn about Quad City Arts? 
I actually volunteered here when I was 16. Since then, I’ve always loved coming in to see the new art and experiencing the creativity the organization brings to the community.

What are you most excited for in your role at Quad City Arts? 
I’m most excited to build meaningful relationships across the community and help expand the impact of Quad City Arts. The opportunity to connect people to the arts while supporting programs that uplift diverse voices—especially ensuring artists from underrepresented communities are seen and supported—is incredibly energizing to me. I’m also looking forward to growing sustainable funding and partnerships that allow the organization to deepen its reach and create lasting cultural impact.
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