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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