It’s never too late for a warm introduction! After joining us in July, we’re thrilled to welcome Kristall Laursen as Quad City Arts’ Development Director. Hailing from Wheatland, IA, after stints in Chicago, Colorado, Alabama, and beyond, Kristall is excited to be back near family and contributing to our vibrant arts community.

With a passion for making the Midwest a hub of creativity, Kristall dreams of transforming the Quad Cities into a place where artists thrive. She’s driven by the vision of a community filled with culture, beauty, and fresh ideas—not just influenced by the coasts, but a leader in its own right.

An adventurer at heart, Kristall has a deep love for the arts, both locally and globally. From the Figge Art Museum in Davenport to the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, she finds inspiration in creativity, human connection, and even the absurdities of life. A self-proclaimed “professional hobbyist,” she’s tried everything from axe throwing to harp playing!

We’re so excited to have Kristall on board, and we can’t wait to see the impact she’ll make as she helps Quad City Arts grow and thrive. If you spot her at one of our events, say hello—especially if you have a favorite arts experience to recommend! 

The Moline Public Art Commission, in collaboration with MetroLINK and Quad City Arts, invites professional artists and design teams to submit qualifications for a transformational public art project at 1315 4th Avenue, Moline, Illinois. This highly anticipated project seeks to create an interactive and visually stunning art installation at The Q Multimodal Station, marking the most ambitious public art undertaking in the Quad Cities. 

Quad City Arts is contracted by the City of Moline to facilitate this transformative public art project. As a longstanding advocate for the arts in the Quad Cities, Quad City Arts will coordinate the selection process, coordinate with the chosen artist or artist team, and ensure the alignment of this project with the overall goals. 

The project offers artists the opportunity to activate a unique urban space with bold, colorful, and imaginative artwork. The selected installation will transform the grassy plaza and surrounding structures into a destination for locals and visitors, fostering connectivity and enriching the downtown Moline experience. 

This initiative is part of the Moline Public Art and Placemaking Plan which was crafted with input from the community and adopted in 2021 and serves as a roadmap for integrating public art into the city’s landscape. Developed by Renew Moline in partnership with the City of Moline, the plan reflects the community’s vision and aligns with the city’s economic development and urban design goals. This project at The Q Multimodal Station is a key realization of the plan, showcasing Moline’s dedication to creating vibrant, art-infused destinations that foster community pride and connection. 

“With this initiative, we aim to reimagine what public spaces can be,” said Jeff Dismer, Chair of the Moline Public Art Commission. “This project exemplifies the power of art to create vibrant, inviting environments that reflect our community’s creativity and aspirations.” 

The $300,000 project budget allows for artistic excellence while ensuring durability and safety for an all-weather, outdoor installation. Artists are required to incorporate lighting and other interactive elements to inspire community engagement and dynamic experiences. 

Jennifer Hirsch, Manager of Administration at MetroLINK, expressed the organization's dedication to enhancing community spaces: "At MetroLINK, we believe that public transportation is more than just moving people from point A to point B; it's about enriching the journey and the spaces we share. This art installation at The Q Multimodal Station embodies our commitment to creating vibrant, engaging environments that reflect the cultural heartbeat of Moline. By integrating art into our transit spaces, we aim to inspire and connect individuals, making every trip a more meaningful experience." 

Kady Derbyshire, Interim Executive Director of Quad City Arts, reflected on the significance of the project: “Public art has the unique power to transform spaces into experiences. This public art installation is more than just a creative endeavor; it’s a true placemaking project. Public art has the power to shape how people experience a space, turning it into a hub of connection, creativity, and community pride. It’s a reminder of how art can shape the identity of a community.” 

The RFQ and additional project details can be found https://www.quadcityarts.com/moline-public-art-rfq. Submissions are due by March 3, and artists must meet specific criteria, including prior experience with large-scale public art projects. 

For inquiries and further information, please contact Quad City Arts at [email protected]. 

About the Moline Public Art Commission The Moline Public Art Commission seeks to enhance the city’s aesthetic and cultural vibrancy through thoughtfully curated public art projects. [Placemaking Guide Link] More about the Moline Public Art Commission: http://moline.il.us/1794/Public-Art-Commission More about the City of Moline: https://visitquadcities.com/plan-your-trip/our-communities/moline 

About MetroLINK
MetroLINK provides innovative and sustainable transportation solutions for the Quad Cities area. 

How to Support Artists During the Holiday Season: 5 Quick Ideas
The holiday season is a magical time of year—a season of giving, celebration, and togetherness. For artists, it’s also a critical time when their creativity becomes an opportunity to make meaningful connections and sustain their livelihood. At Quad City Arts, our mission is to enrich the quality of life in the Quad Cities through the arts. By supporting artists this holiday season, you’re contributing to a vibrant, thriving arts community.

Here’s how you can make a difference:

1. Shop Small, Shop Local
When you buy art directly from an artist, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re ensuring they’re compensated for their craft. Artists get paid when you make a purchase in our Gallery Store!

Visit Us! Our store features work from talented local artists within a 250-mile radius. Not only do your purchases directly support these artists, but a portion of the proceeds also helps fund arts programming in the community. It’s a gift that truly gives back. Stop by the Quad City Arts Gallery Store, located at 1715 2nd Avenue, Rock Island, IL. ​

At Quad City Arts, we believe in fostering opportunities for artists to share their talents. By shopping small with us—you help keep these opportunities alive while celebrating the creativity that makes our region so special. Shop from home, and pick up in-store! www.shopquadcityarts.com

2. Commission a Custom Piece
Few gifts are as personal and thoughtful as a custom artwork created just for your loved one. Many artists accept commissions during the holiday season, offering opportunities to design something truly one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s a portrait, a custom sculpture, or a piece inspired by a cherished memory, this gift will be unforgettable. Find the perfect artist on our Artist Index, and get connected!

Looking for a unique way to give back with your business? Encourage your employer to commission a piece of public art! Businesses can celebrate the holidays by making a lasting impact through public art installations that inspire and beautify the community.

Custom art embodies the values at the heart of Quad City Arts—connecting people to creativity and making art accessible to all.

3. Attend Shows, Performances, or Exhibitions
Artists often present their work through  gallery shows , live performances, and art fairs. Attending these events is a meaningful way to show your support. Bring friends and family, make a day of it, and if something catches your eye, consider making a purchase. Even if you don’t buy, your presence and encouragement make a difference. View our calendar of events to find an evening filled with inspiration!

Through Quad City Arts Presents, we create spaces for artists to share their work with our community. These events highlight the incredible talents of visiting artists and offer unique opportunities to connect. Your support helps us continue this mission and ensures that artists can thrive.

4. Engage on Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for artists to share their work and connect with fans, but they need your help to grow their reach. Simple actions like liking, commenting, and sharing their posts can significantly boost their visibility. If you love an artist’s work, take a moment to tell others why. 

Supporting artists online mirrors the mission of Quad City Arts to inspire creativity in all its forms. By amplifying their voices, you’re helping us bring art to every corner of our community. Help us build a creative community and follow us on Facebook, and Instagram.

5. Give the Gift of Experience
Art isn’t just something to be admired—it’s something to be experienced! Gift your loved ones tickets to a local concert, art class, or gallery tour.

Looking for inspiration? Check out local partners like The Figge Art Museum and the Family Museum, both of which offer wonderful opportunities for creative learning and engagement or join the many "Paint Nights" at local establishments. Whether it’s a class, workshop, or family outing, these experiences inspire connection and creativity.

At Quad City Arts, we aim to create connections between audiences and the arts. When you give the gift of an artistic experience, you’re fostering moments of inspiration, discovery, and joy—values we hold dear.

Why Supporting Artists Matters
Artists enrich our lives in countless ways—through beauty, storytelling, and perspectives that help us see the world differently. At Quad City Arts, we are proud to champion artists and bring their work to our community. By supporting them this holiday season, you’re ensuring they can continue to create and inspire for years to come.

Stop by the Quad City Arts Gallery Store in downtown Rock Island, to shop local and give a gift that supports both artists and community arts programming!

The Moline Public Art Commission, in partnership with Quad City Arts, is excited to announce that Moline resident Jeremiah Ketner, an artist with an impressive portfolio, has been selected to create the next mural on Bass Street. After careful consideration of 13 submissions from local artists, Ketner was chosen for his dynamic and colorful vision, helping to diversify the vibrant local art scene.
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Ketner's murals can be found in various locations, including Nordstrom department stores across the country and, most recently, murals in the Chicago area. He holds a BFA from Columbus College of Art and Design and an MFA from Southern Illinois University. His work has been exhibited in solo shows in Chicago and New York, as well as prestigious group exhibitions across the U.S. and internationally. His creative endeavors include painting one-of-a-kind creatures on custom wooden and vinyl toys, which have gained a strong following among collectors. With his unique aesthetic of 'small and round' forms, inspired by his experiences in Japan, Ketner blends traditional art foundations with pop culture influences.

Jeremiah Ketner's work is celebrated for its vibrant, lush environments and pensive, dreamlike characters. His signature style, a key contribution to the pop surrealism movement, combines whimsical patterns with deeply imaginative female figures. Ketner’s art has evolved from mischievous sprites into richly colored landscapes, often inspired by Japanese culture, which he regularly incorporates into his designs.

Quad City Arts has been contracted to facilitate this mural project, from placing the call for submissions to assisting the artist in completing the work, ensuring a smooth process. Placemaking is central to Quad City Art’s mission, focusing on creating vibrant public spaces that foster connection, community, and cultural enrichment. By leveraging the power of the arts, Quad City Arts aims to transform these spaces into beloved, aesthetically pleasing areas that strengthen community bonds and enhance cultural engagement.

The mural will be completed in November 2024, adding a dynamic new element to the artistic landscape of Bass Street Landing and downtown Moline. The Moline Public Art Commission and Quad City Arts share the common goal of showcasing artists, connecting them with the community, and inspiring the region through the arts.

To learn more about Jeremiah Ketner’s work, view his website https://www.jeremiahketner.com

About the Moline Public Art Commission: http://moline.il.us/1794/Public-Art-Commission
About the City of Moline: https://visitquadcities.com/plan-your-trip/our-communities/moline
About Quad City Arts: https://www.quadcityarts.com/

​From October 12 to December 6, 2024, Quad City Arts will showcase the thought-provoking group exhibition titled “It’s Fine. Everything is Fine.” The exhibit features a collection of works that respond to the poignant, often humorous theme of resilience in the face of uncertainty. The public was invited to a FREE opening reception on October 12 from 5-8pm at Quad City Arts’ downtown Rock Island gallery. During the event, attendees had the opportunity to meet the artists and enjoy refreshments as they explored the diverse collection.
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Group exhibitions like "It’s Fine. Everything is Fine." hold significant value in the art community, offering a platform for diverse voices to come together and create a rich, multifaceted dialogue. By featuring multiple artists in one show, Quad City Arts encourages collaboration, cross-pollination of ideas, and a shared creative experience for both the artists and the audience. These group shows provide artists the chance to connect with one another and the community, fostering a spirit of inclusivity while showcasing a variety of styles, mediums, and perspectives under a unifying theme.

In a strong response to Quad City Arts' Call for Entries, 63 artists submitted 141 pieces of art, with 62 pieces from 45 artists ultimately selected for display. The exhibit proudly highlights diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, with at least five artists from underrepresented backgrounds. Notably, 42 of the artists had never previously exhibited at Quad City Arts, illustrating the gallery’s role in expanding artistic engagement in the region.

​Geographically, this exhibition draws from a wide array of locations. While 36 entries came from the greater Quad Cities area, artists from Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Des Moines, Chicago, Geneseo, Peoria, and other Midwestern towns also contributed. A special acknowledgment goes to the boost in submissions following a Facebook post promoting the exhibit, which led to a surge of entries, particularly from the Cedar Rapids area. Special thanks also go to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art for sharing this opportunity with its’ artists.
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By embracing a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, group shows like this create a dynamic exhibition that speaks to different facets of human experience and emotion. “It’s Fine. Everything is Fine.” is not only a celebration of artistic resilience and humor but also a testament to the importance of providing opportunities for both emerging and established artists to share their voices on a larger stage.
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​October 7, 2024 – Rock Island, IL – Quad City Arts, a cornerstone of the arts and culture community in the Quad Cities region for over 50 years, announces the departure of Executive Director Kevin Maynard, effective October 25, 2024. Maynard has accepted a new role as Executive Director of Opening Nights at Florida State University, where he will begin on November 4, 2024.
 
During his time at the helm of Quad City Arts, Maynard significantly advanced the organization’s mission of enriching the cultural vitality of the Quad Cities through arts programs and public art initiatives. Under his leadership, Quad City Arts expanded its impact by strengthening local partnerships, increasing accessibility to the arts, and championing arts education and advocacy.
 
“Kevin Maynard’s time at Quad City Arts has been transformative. With his vision and energy, he has raised the profile and reach of Quad City Arts to new heights. While we will miss his leadership and skill, we wish him well and are grateful that Quad City Arts has such a bright future because of his efforts,” said Nate Augustine, Quad City Arts Board member.
 
One of Maynard's notable achievements was the launch of the Artist Index, a comprehensive online directory designed to support and promote local artists. He also played a key role in the Arts and Economic Prosperity study, which highlighted the significant economic impact of the arts sector in the Quad Cities. Additionally, Maynard’s commitment to public art resulted in transformative placemaking projects, such as the mural on the side of Analog Arcade Bar in Moline and two murals in Arts Alley in Rock Island by notable local and national artists.
 
Beyond his administrative and strategic contributions, Maynard served as a dynamic ambassador for Quad City Arts on both regional and national stages. His advocacy and presentations at major conferences, including the Midwest Arts Expo and the Association of Performing Arts Professionals, elevated the profile of Quad City Arts and underscored the region’s importance in the national arts landscape.
 
Quad City Arts Board and Maynard will collaborate over the next few weeks to identify an interim director. Maynard will also assist with the transition, ensuring the organization continues its important work without interruption.
 
Reflecting on his time at Quad City Arts, Maynard shared, "It is bittersweet to close this chapter. Quad City Arts has been an extraordinary place to lead, and I am grateful for the support of our dedicated board, staff, and the community. Together, we have accomplished much to strengthen the arts in the Quad Cities. There is a new, exciting chapter ahead for placemaking and art in the Quad Cities! I have been honored to be a part of it and look forward to returning as a tourist to see the lasting impact of our work. I look forward to seeing the team continue to bring this vision to life."
 
For over five decades, Quad City Arts has provided access to the arts through a wide range of programs, including public art installations, educational outreach, the Visiting Artist Series, and Festival of Trees. As the organization embarks on this leadership transition, Quad City Arts remains committed to fostering creativity and connecting the community through the arts.

This 51st season’s lineup includes a wide range of artists from various disciplines, including music, dance, and theater. Through in-school residencies and community outreach activities, these artists will provide educational and inspirational experiences for K-12 and college students.
From traditional Hawaiian music and dance to contemporary jazz, hip-hop, and children’s theater, this season offers students the unique opportunity to connect with cultural practitioners, mentors, and role models in a meaningful way. The Visiting Artist Series continues to enrich local schools by supporting their curriculum, student engagement, and wider community outreach efforts.

THE FULL ROSTER OF ARTISTS
This season includes a wide variety of professional performing artists, each providing educational activities that complement local school curriculums. Students will learn about the native culture of Hawaii through a performance with soaring vocals, breathtaking island harmonies, and a folk vibe, as the 51st season of Quad City Arts Visiting Artist Series residencies begins Sept. 30 with a weeklong visit from Hawaiian dance and music ensemble Kulāiwi.

Kulāiwi brings together three of Hawai‘i’s most talented and revered musicians — Lehua Kalima, Shawn Pimental, and Kawika Kahiapo — alongside hula dancer Pono Fernandez. With a blend of soaring vocals, rich island harmonies, and folk-inspired guitar, they create a deeply engaging atmosphere rooted in the heart of Hawaiian culture.

Their debut collaboration earned them 4 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, including the prestigious Group of the Year. Known for their captivating performances, Kulāiwi effortlessly weaves traditional Hawaiian storytelling through their music, which is as warm and welcoming as the islands themselves.

The name "Kulāiwi" translates to "land of my ancestors," and this connection to ancestry is central to their performances. While they sing the stories of Hawai‘i, their music also resonates with Indigenous communities worldwide, celebrating both cultural diversity and unity.
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​THE FULL LIST OF ARTISTS IS AS FOLLOWS:

• Kulāiwi, Indigenous Hawaiian performance, in residence Sept. 30 to Oct. 5
• Luciane Dom, Afro-Brazilian music, in residence Oct. 7-10
• WÖR, Belgian 18th-century folk crossover band, in residence Oct. 28 to Nov. 1
• Robin Spielberg, Concert pianist and speaker on music and health, in residence Nov. 4-8
• Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, Soulful Southern Big Band, in residence Nov. 20-22
• Sunny Jain, Indian/jazz fusion, in residence Dec. 2-6
• Chicago Dance Crash, street dance fusion company, in residence Jan. 13-17
• “Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch”, children’s puppet theater, in residence Jan. 27-31
• Goitse, traditional Irish music, in residence Feb. 18-21
• Darrah Carr Dance, Irish step dance, in residence March 10-14
• Twin Flames, Canadian Indigenous Folk, in residence March 24-28
• Jarabe Mexicano, Mexican folk-rock, in residence May 5-9

For more information on this residency program, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas.  
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​PUBLIC PERFORMANCES
While not every artist will host a public performance as part of their residency, the "Quad City Arts Presents" series offers the community an opportunity to experience the artists who are bringing impactful arts experiences to local schools. Kulaiwi’s public performance will kick off the “Quad City Arts Presents” series on Thursday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m. at the Sound Conservatory in Moline. This season, patrons can select a ticket price ranging from $10 to $60, allowing more flexibility for attendees while supporting the production costs of each performance. Kulāiwi’s performances seek to inspire audiences to connect with their heritage, creating an unforgettable experience that honors the past while looking toward the future. Six artists will provide public performances in this roster, to learn more visit: quadcityarts.com/performances
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Quad City Arts: Continuing a Legacy of Artistic Engagement
Since 1974, the Visiting Artists Series has engaged Quad City residents of all ages in quality arts experiences with professional performing artists. Artists of various disciplines present demonstrations, workshops, and masterclasses at pre-K sites, elementary, intermediate, and high schools as well as college campuses and community organizations. For more information about the Visiting Artists Series residency program, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas.

Contact: Margot Day, performing arts director at Quad City Arts, [email protected] or 309-793-1213, ext. 106.  




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Accessible Tiered Ticketing Available for All Public Performances

Quad City Arts is excited to present the upcoming Quad City Arts Presents performance series, a carefully curated lineup of world-class artists representing a broad spectrum of music, dance, and cultural expression. This series is designed not only to showcase extraordinary talent but also to engage, inspire, and bring a diverse range of performances to the heart of the Quad Cities. From the soaring harmonies of Hawaiian music to the electrifying energy of contemporary dance and the soulful sounds of Mexican folk-rock, this series offers something for everyone!

Understanding the vital role that accessibility plays in fostering a strong and inclusive arts community, Quad City Arts is committed to making these performances available to as many people as possible through tiered ticket pricing. This subsidized ticketing approach ensures that all members of the community, regardless of financial situation, can experience these live performances. By offering tickets at different price points, Quad City Arts is breaking down the financial barriers that too often limit access to the arts. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of live performance, and tiered pricing helps make that vision a reality.

In addition to these electrifying performances, you’ll have the opportunity to hear the artists share their experiences of working with students in schools, discuss their backgrounds, techniques, and collaborations, and give insight into the inspirations behind their art. It’s an in-depth look at the creative minds bringing this extraordinary series to life.  This season, patrons can select a ticket price ranging from $10 to $60, allowing those who need it a lower price point and options for those who can support all costs associated with the performance they will see.

Quad City Arts Presents series is part of the larger Visiting Artist Series, a nationally recognized residency program that brings world-class artists from diverse artistic and cultural backgrounds directly into local schools. Through outreach performances, more than 29,000 K-12 students annually have the opportunity to experience live performances that might otherwise be out of reach. Your attendance at this community-focused series benefits arts education in our community.

Since 1974, the Visiting Artist Series has been committed to enriching the lives of young students in the Quad Cities by providing access to GRAMMY Award-winning artists and globally renowned performers. All proceeds from the Quad City Arts Presents series will benefit the Visiting Artist Series, ensuring the continuation of this important educational program. This season brings 12 artist ensembles to the region, expanding the horizons of students and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
 
Public Performance Schedule:

• Kulāiwi – Indigenous Hawaiian Music & Dance
  Date: Thursday, October 3, 2024 | 7:00 PM
  Venue: Sound Conservatory
• Chicago Dance Crash – Hip-Hop & Contemporary Dance
  Date: Thursday, January 16, 2025 | 7:00 PM
  Venue: Galvin Fine Arts Center
• Goitse – Traditional Irish Music
  Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025 | 7:00 PM
  Venue: TBD
• Darrah Carr Dance – Irish Step Dance
  Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025  | 7:00 PM
  Venue: TBD
• Jarabe Mexicano – Mexican Folk/Rock Quintet
  Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025 | 7:00 PM
  Venue: Mercado on Fifth

 
About the Performances:
Kulāiwi kicks off the series on October 3, 2024, with a rich and soulful celebration of Hawaiian culture through traditional music and dance. The ensemble brings together some of Hawai‘i’s most talented musicians and hula performers, sharing stories of their island home and Indigenous heritage.

Chicago Dance Crash will grace the stage on January 16, 2025, at the Galvin Fine Arts Center with their innovative fusion of ballet, modern, jazz, and hip hop. This dynamic performance will feature new works curated by Artistic Director KC Bevis, blending street dance and acrobatics into an unforgettable night of movement and audience interaction.

On February 20, 2025, the Irish quintet Goitse will dazzle audiences with their distinctive blend of traditional folk and original compositions. Known for their energetic performances and modern take on Irish music, Goitse is sure to captivate the Quad Cities with their unique sound.

Darrah Carr Dance will follow on March 13, 2025, offering a contemporary twist on Irish step dance. The company’s ModERIN style seamlessly combines traditional Irish step with the fluidity of modern dance, creating performances that are both innovative and rooted in tradition.

Closing out the series on May 8, 2025, Jarabe Mexicano will perform at Mercado on Fifth. Their signature "Bordeño Soul" sound blends Mexican Folk with Rock & Roll, Norteño, Cumbia, and more. With bilingual vocals and vibrant storytelling, this concert will be an intimate celebration of border culture, family, and community.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.quadcityarts.com/performances or call 309-793-1213.

Davenport's Putnam Museum became home to "Pollination Nation," a vibrant mural emphasizing the vital role of pollinators. Inspired by the museum's in-progress pollination trail, the mural adorns the south side of the museum's rotunda. Kelly Lao, Putnam's Vice President of Museum Experiences and Interim CEO, praised the program, saying, "The Metro Arts program is a wonderful opportunity for students and community spaces alike. We are thrilled to showcase the incredible talent of local artists and students."
Both mural projects were guided by the skilled hand of local artist Sarah Robb, celebrating her 18th year with the program.