Blog Archives

Youth Art Projects Transform Quad Cities: Metro Arts ShineS!

7/30/2024

The Quad City Arts Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program dazzled the community with its grand finale showcase at the Rock Island Public Library-Watts-Midtown Branch, celebrating the impressive achievements of its young artists. For five weeks, thirty talented youths aged 15-21 immersed themselves in art, creating impactful projects that reflect the spirit and diversity of the Quad Cities. Since its inception in 2000, the Metro Arts Program has been a beacon of creativity and community enhancement. This year's program, running from June 10, featured both mural and film projects that left an indelible mark on the community.

Captivating Films
The Film Program, in collaboration with Augustana College, produced two thought-provoking short films: "Kiss Mary Kill" and "Clown." Drawing from themes of 'future' and 'past,' "Clown" tackled cultural appropriation with an absurdist twist, while "Kiss Mary Kill" explored a passionate crime in a black-and-white period setting. The young filmmakers also created blooper reels, capturing the joy and challenges of their creative journey. Led by Stacy Barton, Associate Professor and Film Program Director at Augustana College, these budding filmmakers honed their craft and storytelling skills.

"Kiss Mary Kill"

"Clown"

Impactful Murals
In Rock Island, the mural team unveiled "United," a powerful piece celebrating agricultural labor and the armed services. This patriotic mural, adorning the east side of Quality Control Restoration's building (formerly Goodyear), was revealed on July 12 to an audience of artists, city officials, and local media. Scott Hughes, QCR owner, expressed his pride in hosting such a meaningful work of art.

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.

Community Support and Future Opportunities
These artistic endeavors were made possible by the generous support of Augustana College, City of Rock Island, Davenport Noon Optimists, Modern Woodmen of America, the Putnam Museum and Science Center, Quality Control Restoration, The Rental Guys, Iowa Arts Council, and the Illinois Arts Council Agency.
Looking ahead, applications for the 2025 Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program open on February 15, 2025. Youth aged 15-21 (by June 2025) are encouraged to apply and embark on a transformative artistic journey. For inquiries, contact Ben Gougeon, Events Coordinator, at [email protected] or 309.7493.1213 ext. 100.

About the Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program
Since 2000, Metro Arts has empowered young adults aged 15-21 with paid summer apprenticeships across various arts disciplines. Over five weeks, participants collaborate on projects that enrich the community, developing both artistic and professional skills under the mentorship of accomplished local artists.
Join us in celebrating and supporting the next generation of artists, as they continue to beautify and inspire the Quad Cities. For more information visit: www.quadcityarts.com/metro-arts

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: SANDI BURRICHTER

7/9/2024

Quad City Arts is delighted to announce the newest addition to our team: our new Festival of Trees Administrator Sandi Burrichter! With a dynamic background and a deep-rooted passion for the arts and community events, our new administrator brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to this pivotal role. We are confident that her unique blend of skills and dedication will help elevate the Festival of Trees to new heights. Get to know Sandi and learn a few fun facts, don't hesitate to reach out and have a brew with her!

Are you a Quad Cities native? What brought you to the Quad Cities?

Sort of. I grew up in a small town between the Quads and Dubuque—Lost Nation, to be exact. I attended Kirkwood College and then moved to the Quad Cities for a job.

What is your biggest achievement/goal/moment of success to date – personal or professional?
Personally, it would be raising three kids as a single parent. They are the best kids anyone could hope for, and now all three are outstanding, successful adults.

Professionally, I helped facilitate a Draft Day party for the St. Louis Rams. I was working for an advertising agency based in Detroit, and Quiznos was one of our national clients. St. Louis was a market I covered. One day, I received a call from the Pepsi rep in St. Louis telling me that the caterer for the Rams' (quickly approaching) Draft Day party had backed out at the last minute. He asked me if the St. Louis Quiznos restaurants could band together and pull it off. Of course, I said yes! Then I had to call my boss and the franchise owners and tell them what I had just agreed to do! Luckily, everyone jumped at the opportunity, and we dug in and got to work. It was EPIC—we fed nearly 5,000 players and their families, team staff, corporate sponsors, vendors, and season ticket holders! We absolutely killed it! Because it went so well, Quiznos was granted a spot at game concessions!

How did you first learn about Quad City Arts?
Through the Visiting Artist series at my kids' schools! The talent was always so remarkable that I would try to visit on those days so I could attend.

What are you most excited for in your role at Quad City Arts?
Being a member of the Quad City Arts staff is so exciting because this talented team makes monumental events happen for our community! I get to be part of the remarkable team that brings excitement and joy to thousands of families every year through the Festival of Trees! I've always believed that Festival is THE kickoff to the holiday season, and I'm looking forward to being part of the magic!

What is your favorite arts experience in the Quad Cities?
Well, of course, I love the Festival of Trees first and foremost! But I also love the unique artistry and craftsmanship that is on display at Riverssance every year.

What is your favorite arts experience outside of the Quad Cities?
My favorite art is nature. The beauty of the ocean and pounding waves, beaches full of shells, a dense forest, rock formations caused by years of being subject to the elements. That's my favorite kind of art.

Who is your favorite artist?
In the past, I've owned paintings from artists Larry Fanning, Bev Doolittle, and John McFaul, and I currently have two Steven Hanks in my home. But today, my taste is much more simplistic and contemporary. For a performing artist, hands down Shirley McClain—ECCENTRIC!

What is one thing that might surprise people about you?
I love being near the water, on the water, but I can't swim.

What are you currently watching on Netflix or TV?
A friend got me hooked on *Your Honor* and I'm almost done with season 2, but I just read there may not be a season 3—nooo!

Star Wars or Star Trek?
Star what??

Where is the best pizza in the Quad Cities (or where you are from)?
SMASH Pizza in Bettendorf!

What is your favorite book?
"A Framework for Understanding Poverty" by Ruby Payne - It's a must-read for educators, non-profits, and professionals.

Where is your go-to place for inspiration?
I have a few close friends I rely on to bring perspective to my life, be it personal or professional. They ground me.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
I like to cook, so having my own small, eclectic restaurant would be a fun challenge! And I would LOVE to be a helicopter pilot!

If you could have a drink with any artist living or dead, who would it be?
Jimmy Carter. He may not be an artist in the typical sense, but the philanthropic impact he's made and his selfless approach to life is inspiring to me.

If you see Sandi in our office or out in the community, be sure to stop by and say hello. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to the passion and creativity she will bring to Quad City Arts and Festival of Trees!

The Public Sculpture Program's Biggest Year Yet

7/1/2024

Since 2002, Quad City Arts has been a pivotal force in shaping the cultural and urban landscape of the Quad Cities through our Public Sculpture Program. This year, we are proud to facilitate the installation of a record 30 sculptures, reflecting our commitment to fostering cultural engagement and enhancing the urban environment.

Kevin Maynard, Executive Director of Quad City Arts, shares, "The Quad City Arts Public Sculpture Program not only invigorates the community by introducing fresh perspectives but also promotes a dynamic urban landscape. Our recent Arts and Economic Prosperity Study highlights that over 80% of community members view art, including our public sculpture program, as a 'positive experience in a troubled world.' We are thrilled to see this program supported at record levels by our local municipalities, showcasing the profound impact of the arts in our community."

Sculptures, chosen by committees from each city or venue, are leased for one year from talented sculptors across the nation. These artworks are available for purchase by individuals, businesses, or cities for permanent installation post-June 2025. All sculptures, both newly installed and those purchased from past exhibits, can be explored on our website at Quad City Arts Public Sculpture and on our partners' websites.

The most exciting part of the process is watching a Hampton Crane 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 will then drill holes into the concrete and secure the sculpture. (Hampton Cranes generously donates their services).

The sculptures enhance numerous public spaces across the Quad Cities. For example, Rock Island is introducing sculptures to beautify two parks and two libraries. Moline's selections along 5th Ave and near the Kone Building are set to transform the cityscape, while Bettendorf focuses on drawing attention to local businesses and public spaces. Downtown Davenport enriches its collection with new pieces along 2nd Street, and the City of Clinton celebrates its new participation with wind-themed sculptures along the Mississippi River. The DeWitt Fine Arts Foundation and the DeWitt Community Library are partnering to create a sculpture garden, featuring two sculptures this year.

This initiative provides a perfect opportunity for community members, art enthusiasts, and families to engage with and enjoy the transformative power of art in public spaces. We encourage everyone to share their experiences and interactions with the sculptures on social media using #QuadCityArts on Instagram or by tagging @QuadCityArts on Facebook.

View Map and Directions to All Sculptures

Below are each city's sculptures for the 2024-2025 season along with their artists' statements.

Bettendorf, Iowa

Geifman First Equity, Bettendorf

"The Catch" by Anna Modeland
"I chose to create this piece because, as the national bird, the eagle embodies the strength and freedom of our country, especially through these tough times. It’s a reminder that through war, hatred and racism, and a panic-inducing pandemic, we can all still stand tall, spread our wings, and choose to rebuild this place that we call home."

Geifman First Equity, Bettendorf

"Twist" by Michael Young
"When designing sculpture, I always remember that each viewer will have an individual, emotional response to the piece. Because I want that response to be positive, I frequently use birds in my work – both as imagery and as symbol. The idea of birds swooping up and taking flight is incredibly uplifting, lending an inspirational feel to the sculpture."

Geifman First Equity, Bettendorf

"Bench, Please!" by Ben Pierce
"Wanting to create a sculpture that was both true to my design aesthetic, functional and identifiable as a bench so people would instantly recognize and utilize the design, hopefully elevating the normal bench sitting experience by at least a little."

Faye's Field, Bettendorf

"Soapstone Writing Figure" by V. Skip Willits
"In the studio I use soap stone for drawing the lines that I cut in the steel. I decided to incorporate that mark making technique in the finished work...The welding technique I use to create most of my work is a skill I began learning at age ten from my father who worked in a welding shop. He taught me everything, from the characteristics of materials such as steel, cast iron and aluminum to the various welding techniques; arc, TIG, MIG, torch, etc."

Bettendorf Community Center

"Balancing Act" by John Adduci
"I've always been fascinated by magic tricks that seem to defy logic and attract onlookers. The notion of spinning plates has captured my attention for years. Furthermore, a big part of my sculpture practice is capturing movement through metal, for sculpture that attracts and delights onlookers. "Balancing Act" tends to bring enjoyment to visitors, as the spinning plate seems to be captured in time, without losing the essence of spinning."

Waterfront Convention Center, Bettendorf

"Colossus" by Andrew Arvanetes
"This sculpture was inspired by a lifelong fascination with architecture, rocketry, and mid 20th century science fiction...My sculptures are object oriented and narrative in nature. I achieve a connection with my audience by utilizing universal visual details. These details combine with the overall form to create the visual aesthetic."

Veteran's Memorial Park, Bettendorf

"Windblown" by Tim Adams
"Have you ever been surprised in the spring when a plant pops up where you did not plant it? This is the magic of a seed being windblown to a new location or seed dispersal! ‘Windblown’ represents those seeds that scatter and unexpectedly bloom where they land, carried by the wind and sown in ground remaining dormant until the buds peek out of the soil and beauty reveals itself in blooms and color."

Build to Suit Corner, Bettendorf

"Rotating Through the Universe" by Paul Bobrowitz
"Rotating Through the Universe is a metaphor for the journey of life, with the individual or main object depicted as moving through various stages and experiences. An interconnectedness of everything: The universe is a complex system where everything is interconnected. It invites visual interaction with kinetic energy to represent the movement of planets, stars, galaxies, or other celestial bodies in the universe."

Clinton, Iowa

Clinton Public Library

"Enchantment of Reading I" by James Haire
"This sculpture was originally created for a children's section of the Addison, Illinois Public Library. The daughter of a librarian that worked at the library was the model. I wanted a whimsical theme for the piece to make it playful for the children."

Riverview Drive, Clinton

"Full Sail II" by Jon Kamrath
"My second sculpture in this series, this abstract sailboat uses a strong contrast between dark, distressed steel components and bright, clean aluminum panels. The organic feel of the steel, juxtaposed with the vibrant motion ground into the aluminum creates a striking visual, constantly changing with the position of the sun or viewer."

Riverview Drive, Clinton

"Windwave II" by Bill McGrath
"I took up metal sculpture about 12 years ago after being heavily involved in bringing art into my community as city manager. Because of this interest, I primarily make sculpture for outdoor, public viewing. I create sculpture to lure people into looking at the use of materials, shapes, shadows, and colors in a manner different from what they are used to."

Riverview Drive, Clinton

"Breezin' Series #3" by Jim Wolnosky
"My inspiration has been the great jazz & visual artists of the 50s & 60s. Another influence is the great musician Charlie Parker who would start with a few random notes, move them around & eventually come up with a composition. He called this process “the art of recovery”. Riffing on this process, I form a base, add layers of elements until I have backed myself into a corner, recovered & finally end with a shape which is pleasing & moves with the breeze. My favorite Duke Ellington quote is ”It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing."

On Bluff Path near Sawmill Museum, Clinton

"Point" by Bill McGrath
"I've always liked gabions and the idea of stone/rocks under some kind of tension. I wanted a familiar shape that would either be recognized at first from afar, or later after examination of the piece. I like people 'wandering' through a piece."

City Hall Parking Lot, Clinton

"Opportunity Doors" by Matt Moyer
"Opportunities come to us from unexpected circumstances. I am inspired by pumps, plows, factories, crops, and our natural environment, as well as the people who maintain all of them."

Davenport, Iowa

2nd St. Parking Garage, Davenport

"Oxbow" by Tim Adams
"Look at any aerial photo! All rivers and streams take on a serpentine pattern as they carve their way through the landscape toward the equator. As eons pass, the constantly flowing energy of the water scours away the banks carving and depositing alternately until the water course turns back on itself and abandons its former channel for a new path. The resultant land form is the 'oxbow'."

Common Cord Courtyard, Davenport

"Collaborative Community" by Paul Bobrowitz
"This sculpture is about people striving and how we need one another to discuss and work together so we can reach common goals. "

RiverCenter, Davenport

"Fowl Play" by Tim Adams
"This sculpture was created using scraps of steel remaining from other sculpture projects. This creates a playful abstract representation of a bird recognizable from the distance--thus the name, 'Fowl Play'! Up close, the viewer can see the conglomeration of pieces used to create the piece."

Current Hotel, Davenport

"Pluma Sculptura aka The Feather" by Kirk Seese
"The Feather is my debut sculpture design, after spending four years designing themed climbing walls in the active family entertainment industry for a company called ClimbZone, and almost twenty years painting public and private murals for my own business, BB Murals."

Figge Art Museum, Davenport

"We're Here" by Chis Wubbena
"We’re Here, inspired by classical figurative sculpture along with geologic and Neolithic rock formations, takes a closer look at the individual, the person, and the weight they assume. The abstracted figurative form exists in a state of perpetual action and reaction as its stainless-steel body constructs and twists under a large, painted, rock-like mass. The painted, layered histories accumulated atop the figurative form expresses the here and now with the use of applied text and imagery. The text and imagery are suitable for all ages."

Dewitt, Iowa

DeWitt Community Library

"Learning to Fly" by Dale Compton
"By simply existing we are constantly changing and growing. In this piece you might see a young girl or an older woman. A young girl, like the small caterpillar, just waiting to grow and explore the next phase in life. She is ready to take flight, embracing what life has in store for her as she transforms into a woman. The woman looks back on her life, fondly remembering when she first spread her wings like the beautiful butterfly and learned to fly. This piece uses rebar for the frame of the structure and reclaimed scrap metal for the body and dress and is powder coated to withstand the elements."

DeWitt Community Library

"Agua Dorada" by Peter Gray
"Agua Dorada was created to emphasize the importance and value of our need and perception of water. We have reached a point in many regions of the United States and the world where water has the value of gold, and life without it is perilous. The concept for this sculpture is a riff on the “black gold” oil-based products we have been using and burning since 1859. Even though oil has enhanced many aspects of our lives, it has led to irreparable environmental damage and issues."

Moline, ILlinois

Corner of 13th St. & 5th Ave., Moline

"Air Garden" by Steven Buduo
"Similar to how a garden invites us to appreciate the beauty in the nature, Air Garden subtly encloses space so that we can imagine it in a more essential way. It consists of cast concrete, though I consider the negative space inside and around it to be equally relevant."

The Atlas Collective, Moline

"Whistlepig" by Steve Feren
"In the work I am now engaged in, mostly work in the public forum, I am trying to find my role in the community and at the same time, pushing the limits of work that can operate on many levels."

Le Mekong Vietnamese, Moline

"Portal to metamorphosis II" by Glory Hartsfield
"The arch creates a doorway that can be the start to a new dimension, within ourselves or as a final transformation when we draw our last breath. We have the power to transform ourselves to become the best we can be."

Heritage Place, Moline

"Helicopter Seeds" by Brian Ferriby
"Helicopter Seeds is inspired by the actual form and motion of the seed pods from maple trees when they are carried away on their journey of regeneration by the wind on a summer day."

Sound Conservatory, Moline

"Florette II" by Sam Spiczka
"When I look at a natural creation, be it a bone, shell, or tree, I am struck by the anomalies and variations found in an object that appears symmetrical at first glance. The perfection that life aspires to is forced to adapt into a more irregular and complex form when it encounters an indifferent environment. Yet the ideal still lies just below the surface. It is a whisper only our mind can hear...In it can be found both the chaos of growth and the geometry of perfection."

Kone Building, Moline

"Action Reaction" by Chris Wubbena
"Action Reaction, inspired by classical figurative sculpture along with geologic and Neolithic rock formations, takes a closer look at the individual, the person, and the weight they assume. The abstracted figurative form exists in a state of perpetual action and reaction as it's stainless-steel body constructs and twists under a large, painted, rock-like mass. The painted, layered histories accumulated atop the figurative form expresses the here and now with the use of applied text and imagery. The text and imagery are suitable for all ages."

Rock Island, ILlinois

Rock Island Public Library

"Wayward Moose" by Steve Feren
"The work is concerned with the search for meaning/light. I am interested in work that is physically and historically rooted yet speaks to the spirit, work that is straight-forward, but that can operate mysteriously. There are no simple answers to matters of the heart."

Longview Park, Rock Island

"Bear" by Paul Bobrowitz
"This sculpture depicts a woman's story about her husband being ribbed for having harvested the smallest bear."

SW Library, Rock Island

"In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" by Anna Modeland
"I chose to title my sculpture In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida after the 1968 hit song by Iron Butterfly, because it showcases a carefree era of being wild and free spirited. Featuring iron butterflies sharing a playful moment with [heavy metal] daisies, this eclectic work of art is inspired by a colorful lifestyle that once was and may never be again. It's perfect for viewers from all walks of life to enjoy and interact with, as the butterflies can spring back and forth to signify flight."

Five Points, Rock Island

"Caution Pump" by Matt Moyer
"The inspiration for this work came from seeing large industrial pumps found in factories. My work is inspired by industrial manufacturing. It has a decidedly blue-collar feel due to my upbringing in Moline, IL."

View Map and Directions to All Sculptures

Youth Art Projects Transform Quad Cities: Metro Arts ShineS!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: SANDI BURRICHTER

The Public Sculpture Program's Biggest Year Yet

Bettendorf, Iowa

Clinton, Iowa

Davenport, Iowa

Dewitt, Iowa

Moline, ILlinois

Rock Island, ILlinois

Archives

Categories

Let's Get Social

Rock Island Gallery
& Store Hours

CONTACT

HOME
About
Programs

EVENTS

GALLERIES

STORE
BLOG
SUPPORT & Donate

SUPPORT

ABOUT

Looking for something?

Youth Art Projects Transform Quad Cities: Metro Arts ShineS!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: SANDI BURRICHTER

The Public Sculpture Program's Biggest Year Yet

Bettendorf, Iowa

Clinton, Iowa

Davenport, Iowa

Dewitt, Iowa

Moline, ILlinois

Rock Island, ILlinois

Archives

Categories

Let's Get Social

​Rock Island Gallery ​& Store Hours

CONTACT

HOMEAboutPrograms

EVENTS

GALLERIES

STOREBLOGSUPPORT & Donate

​SUPPORT

ABOUT

Looking for something?

Rock Island Gallery
& Store Hours

HOME
About
Programs

STORE
BLOG
SUPPORT & Donate

SUPPORT