Quad City Arts Unveils 2025 Arts Dollars Grant Awardees, Empowering Artists and Organizations with nearly $150,000 in Funding

Quad City Arts is pleased to announce 2025 Arts Dollars grant awards to 29 organizations and 9 individual artists. Since 1990, Quad City Arts has supported the local art community by awarding more than $1,600,000 in grants to local artists, non-profit organizations, and schools. 

Funding Sources
Arts Dollars funds are generously provided by the Hubbell-Waterman Foundation, the Quad Cities Community Foundation - Isabel Bloom Art Education Endowment, and the Illinois Arts Council Agency, a state agency. In total, Quad City Arts granted almost $150,000 to local artists and organizations during this grant cycle, up from $115,000 in the 2024 cycle. 

Grant Recipients
The 2025 Arts Dollars grants encompass a wide array of projects, each uniquely contributing to the cultural tapestry of our community. This complete list of recipients showcases the breadth of creativity and commitment to community enrichment among Quad Cities' artists and organizations

Capacity Building Grants: 

• MC Art Collective—Art Week in Aledo 
• WVIK—Community Content Studio 
• Seton Catholic School Art Club—Smartboard for Arts Classroom 
• Together Making a Better Community—Sound Equipment for their new auditorium 

Education Grants: 

• Amber Dale—Pinhole Photography Workshops 
• Crossroads Cultural Connections—Visiting Artist School Program 
• Junior Theatre Inc—Affordable Arts for All: Production Rights for Junior Theatre 
• Muscatine Art Center—Summer Enrichment Series 
• Spring Forward Learning Center—Painting Classes w/Zay Williams 
• United Township High School—Creation of High School Mariachi Band 

Project Grants: 

• Antonio Varela—Generaciones; photo/video project on Latin leaders of the QCA 
• Autistic & Loved Foundation—Mural for Sensory Gym 
• Azubuike African American Council for the Arts—Pulling Focus Film Festival 
• Ballet Quad Cities—Creation of a new Dance Me A Story program 
• Black Box Theatre—Solo Fringe Festival 
• Bix Beiderbecke World Museum & Archives—100th Anniversary of ‘Davenport Blues’ concert feat. Gunhild Carling 
• Curtis Lewis—Development and Production of one-act play ‘The Half’ 
• Daniel J. Flosi—Printing of fine arts chapbook ‘Riverend Series’ 
• Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre—North Meets South Festival 
• Fresh Films—Summer Film Intensive 
• Gaye Shannon-Burnett—Story Quilts for African American Fiber Arts Exhibition 
• Greg Hipskind—Summer Kickoff Concert for QC Rock Academy 
• Haus of Ruckus—Funding for 4th Season 
• Her Voice Media—Fireside Stories 
• Hot Glass Inc.—Glass Sculpture for Moline Public Library Garden 
• Jessica Beshears—Creation of Undercurrent Magazine 
• Lucas Berns—Development of ‘Artifical and Still’ collection of digital weaves 
• Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center—Photo Voice photography project 
• Mercado on Fifth—Dia de los Muertos cartonería workshops 
• Narratives—Narratives QC Spoken Word Poetry Program 
• Opera Quad Cities—Production of Die Fledermaus 
• OUTLETProgramme—OUTLETProgramme Concert Series 
• Polyrhythms—Third Sunday Jazz Series 
• Quad Cities Pride Alliance—Performers for Pride Festival 
• Rock Island Public Library—Art Literacy art exhibitions 
• Shellie Moore Guy—The Family Tree writing/family history workshops 
• Vince Jetter Community Center—Cultural Arts programming 
• World Relief Quad Cities-- Arts in English Summer Camp for Refugee Youth

Quad City Arts is committed to advocating for the arts as a vital component of a vibrant community. We extend our deepest gratitude to our partners, supporters, and the talented grant recipients of 2025. Together, we continue to make the Quad Cities a place where art and culture flourish!

​Brian Allen has been named the new Executive Director of Quad City Arts. Allen joins the organization from the German American Heritage Center, where he served as Executive Director, bringing experience in arts administration, cultural programming, and community engagement.

“We are thrilled to welcome Brian Allen to Quad City Arts,” said Nate Augustine, Board Chair of Quad City Arts. “His passion for the arts, deep commitment to community collaboration, and leadership make him the ideal choice to guide our organization into its next chapter.”

Allen has a strong background in cultural programming and nonprofit management, having successfully led initiatives that celebrate heritage, arts, and education. Most recently, as Executive Director of the German American Heritage Center and Museum, he launched innovative programs and exhibitions designed for children and families, expanded audience engagement, and forged impactful partnerships throughout the Quad Cities. His leadership helped grow the organization’s reach and deepen its connection to the community.

Previously, at the Figge Art Museum, Allen managed the Studio School and education galleries, where he successfully led the merger of the studio program with the Bereskin Academy, streamlining arts education opportunities for local students. He also curated community-driven exhibitions in collaboration with area school districts, colleges, and organizations, reinforcing the museum’s role as a hub for creative learning.

“I am honored to guide Quad City Arts into its next chapter, where creativity and purpose collide to create a vibrant future,” said Allen. “The arts have played a vital role in my career, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to foster new opportunities for artists. I look forward to working with the talented team at Quad City Arts to continue making an impact in the Quad Cities region.”

Throughout his career, Allen has championed relevance—ensuring that art and cultural experiences are accessible, engaging, and meaningful to people from all walks of life. He looks forward to leading an organization that not only embraces relevance but also integrates art into the very fabric of the community.

A passionate advocate for community engagement, Allen has a long-standing commitment to service. A former AmeriCorps member (2008), he currently serves on the boards of Arts Basics and the Association of Fundraising Professionals (Quad Cities Chapter) and volunteers with his local Cub Scout committee.

Allen holds an MA in Museum Studies from Western Illinois University (2013) and a BFA in Painting and Drawing from Illinois State University (2008). His studies in San Francisco and Tokyo have broadened his global perspective, influencing his approach to arts enrichment. A recognized leader in the field, he has presented at national and regional conferences, including the Association of Midwest Museums (2025, 2018) and the National Art Education Association (2021).

As Executive Director, Allen will oversee the organization’s programs, community partnerships, and strategic initiatives, ensuring that Quad City Arts remains a hub for creativity and cultural enrichment. His leadership comes at an exciting time as the organization continues to grow its offerings, including public art projects, programming, and signature events such as Festival of Trees.

More Than a Performance: A Week-Long ResidencyDarrah Carr Dance isn’t just stopping by for a show—they’re immersing themselves in the Quad Cities community through Quad City Arts’ Visiting Artist Series residency program, March 10-14. Throughout the week, the company will engage with 12 local schools across six school districts, as well as the LeClaire Community Library, introducing students and families to the history, costumes, and traditions of Irish dance.

Since 1974, the Visiting Artist Series has brought world-class artists to local schools, providing over 29,000 K-12 students annually with live, interactive arts experiences. These residencies support school curriculums, student engagement, and community outreach, ensuring that the arts remain accessible to all.

More Upcoming Events in the Quad City Arts Presents SeriesDarrah Carr Dance is just one of the incredible performances in this year’s Quad City Arts Presents series. Mark your calendar for these upcoming events:

• 🎺 The U.S. Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors – Free public concert at Adler Theatre, Davenport, Thursday, April 17, at 7 p.m.
• 🎶 Jarabe Mexicano – A high-energy fusion of Mexican folk, rock, and Afro-Latin music at Mercado on Fifth, Moline, on Thursday, May 8, at 7 p.m.
  
  

Don’t miss the chance to witness the magic of Irish dance with Darrah Carr Dance on March 13! Whether you’re a long-time fan of traditional Irish step or experiencing it for the first time, this performance will leave you in awe.

📍 Learn more about the Visiting Artist Series and upcoming performances at www.quadcityarts.com/vas.

​The 2025 Quad City Arts Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program is accepting applications through Friday, April 11. This program provides area youth ages 15-21 with five-week paid summer apprenticeships. These apprentices will create community arts projects that positively impact our community. This year’s projects include mural painting, mosaics, documentary filmmaking, and pop-up street performances. Interested applicants can apply online at www.quadcityarts.com/metro-arts.

This year’s Metro Arts program will start on Monday, June 9 and end on Thursday, July 10. Apprentices will meet for up to four hours Monday through Thursday. This year’s programs are meant to highlight accessibility in the arts with most of the programs geared toward entry level artists, where all supplies and equipment is provided by Quad City Arts and its partners.

“The Metro program strives to teach our apprentices both business and artistic skills, and to create works of art that engage the community in a meaningful way,” says Ben Gougeon, Events Coordinator at Quad City Arts and the Metro Arts administrator. “With a focus on public art, we can instill a sense of civic pride in our community and give our apprentices a lasting sense of ‘I made that. I have a stake here.’”

Metro Arts is also celebrating its 25th year in 2025, and plans are underway to celebrate the program on July 9th, including current students and alumni. “I talk with so many people around town who say, ‘I was in Metro! I did the mural on…’ The experience stays with our apprentices, and they will always leave a piece of themselves in the Quad Cities, even if they move away. It really does help to breed more engaged citizens who are willing to do the work to make
their communities a better place.”

More details about the Metro Arts 25th Anniversary Celebration and the specific projects will be available at a later date.

• DOCUMENTARY FILM PROJECTS 
  Apprentices will work closely with independent filmmakers and educators to learn the art of documentary filmmaking and its process from start to finish. Apprentices will craft short form documentaries, from script to screen, exploring writing, filming, editing, and sound design. Using professional gear and journalistic practices, you'll grasp film design principles applicable to feature length documentaries and short form content creation, including helping document and craft compelling multimedia stories about the Metro Arts program. 
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• MURAL PROJECTS 
  Under local professional muralists, apprentices collaborate with clients to design and paint vibrant murals around the Quad Cities. Apprentices will get feedback from clients on design elements, then work as a team of artists to create two or more concepts to be presented. Once a design has been approved by the client, the apprentices will spend 4 weeks painting the mural on-site. Note: These projects are likely to be outdoors, and require apprentices to spend extended time in the elements, including direct sun, extreme heat, humidity, rain, etc., and involve lifting and possible work on scaffolding or lifts. 
  
  
• MOSAIC PROJECT 
  Apprentices will work alongside professional artists to design and install a portion of a large scale public mosaic. Learning about materials, design, and techniques, apprentices will also learn to work with clients and public stakeholders on the creation of public art. Note: these projects are likely to be outdoors, and require apprentices to spend extended time in the elements, including direct sun, extreme heat, humidity, rain, etc., and involve lifting and possible work on scaffolding or lifts. Apprentices may also be required to use sharp materials and tools. 
  
  
• POP-UP PERFORMANCE PROJECT 
  Working with artists in theatre, music, and dance, apprentices will design, rehearse, and perform multiple pop-up performances in public spaces around the community. Both small and large scale works will be created, and apprentices will learn and incorporate elements of street theatre, guerilla theatre, flashmobs, choral singing, and dance to create dynamic, spontaneous performances that engage the community. 

If you love the lively energy of Irish music, you won’t want to miss Goitse, one of the most celebrated Irish ensembles of their generation, performing live in the Quad Cities on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 7 p.m. at the Sound Conservatory in Moline!

Known for their infectious energy, masterful musicianship, and deep respect for tradition, Goitse (pronounced Go-wit-cha, meaning “come here” in Gaelic) is bringing a thrilling mix of jigs, reels, and soulful ballads straight from Ireland to the heart of the Midwest.

"We're absolutely thrilled to be back in the U.S., sharing our style of energetic Irish music with audiences across the country,” band member Colm Phelan said. “This tour is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fans new and old, and we can’t wait to share the music and songs of Ireland on every stage we play." 

Audiences will also recognize Goitse’s trademark sound from the second season of the hit show Bad Sisters, which features tracks The Cave of the Wild Horses and The Peacocks from the band’s 2022 album Rosc. The show’s creator, Sharon Horgan, and director, Dearbhla Walsh, tapped Goitse to be a part of the series, inviting the band to record on set with the cast for Episode 1, which debuted in November 2024 on Apple TV+. 
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Formed at Limerick’s renowned Irish World Academy, Goitse is a five-piece powerhouse that blends traditional Irish folk tunes with their own original compositions. Their high-energy performances have captivated audiences across the U.S., Europe, and beyond, earning them awards like Live Ireland’s “Traditional Group of the Year” and Chicago Irish American News’ “Group of the Year.”

The band features an incredibly talented lineup:
🎻 Áine Mc Geeney – Fiddle & vocals, known for her mesmerizing voice and dynamic playing.
🥁 Colm Phelan – Bodhrán player and first-ever World Bodhrán Champion.
🎸 Conal O’Kane – Guitarist and one of the most sought-after accompanists in Irish music.
🎹 Daniel Collins – Multi-instrumentalist and multiple All-Ireland champion.
🎶 Alan Reid – A trailblazing banjo and mandolin player with a unique style.

This performance isn’t just about great music—it’s about giving back to the community. As part of Quad City Arts’ Visiting Artist Series, Goitse’s visit includes a weeklong residency in local schools, libraries, and community sites, inspiring students and introducing them to the power of live music. Every ticket purchased helps offset the cost of a school performance, ensuring that young minds across the Quad Cities get access to quality arts programming. By attending, you’re not only enjoying an incredible show—you’re supporting music education and cultural enrichment in our community.
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Secure Your Spot! This is your chance to experience a world-class Irish band up close and get into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit a little early! Whether you’re a die-hard fan of traditional Irish music or just looking for a night of toe-tapping fun, Goitse’s performance is not to be missed. 
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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 transformation of Arts Alley in downtown Rock Island is now complete, with two breathtaking murals bringing vibrancy and inspiration to this historic pedestrian space. As one of the largest public art projects in Rock Island’s history, this initiative highlights the power of community-driven public art and the role of Quad City Arts in making it a reality.

The mural project, part of the larger $8.7 million Rebuild Downtown effort, was a collaborative endeavor between the Rock Island Downtown Alliance, the City of Rock Island, and Quad City Arts. After a highly engaged public selection process, artists Atlanta Dawn of the Quad Cities and Nicole Salgar of Miami were chosen to create two large-scale murals on the upper-story walls at 1719 2nd Avenue.

The Artists and Their Vision
Both murals reflect themes of identity, nature, and heritage, seamlessly integrating into the evolving atmosphere of Arts Alley. Atlanta Dawn’s piece, "Luminary Voyage", carries a powerful message: “There is a knowing within. Listen, a wisdom born of both light and shadow. Press onward amid the darkness for the light is not external, but inside you.” The vibrant imagery encourages viewers to find resilience and inspiration within themselves.

Nicole Salgar’s mural, in contrast, is a tribute to Rock Island’s rich biodiversity and historical roots. Her design features a native finch surrounded by lush iris flowers at dusk, with Victorian architecture woven into the background. “I wanted to create a design that seamlessly blends elements celebrating local biodiversity and heritage,” said Salgar. “The intricate architectural details honor the city’s legacy and foster a profound sense of connection within the community.”