 Quad City Arts is pleased to announce 2022 Arts Dollars grant awards to 18 organizations and 15 individual artists, 10 of whom are part of the first ever Visual Artist Grant cohort. Since 1990, Quad City Arts has supported the local art community by awarding grants to local artists, non-profit organizations, and schools. Arts Dollars funds are generously provided by the Hubbell-Waterman Foundation and the Illinois Arts Council Agency, a state agency. This year, Quad City Arts received additional funding from a funder who wishes to remain anonymous to fund Visual Artist Grants. In total, Quad City Arts granted nearly $140,000 to local artists and organizations during this grant cycle. Arts Dollars has been granting funds to artists and nonprofits in the Quad Cities region since 1979 thanks to our generous funding partners who believe in the power of the arts to enrich our communities. The funds awarded in the Project and Education categories are an investment in the arts across the six-county region served by Quad City Arts, activating nonprofits and artists who are engaging their community through projects in visual arts, theatre, music, film and more. The vision that Quad City Arts has in facilitating these grants is that individual artists and nonprofits of all sizes would be able to accomplish projects in the Quad Cities and surrounding communities and that those communities would see a long-lasting benefit from the completed projects, paying artists for their work in the process. Each year, artists and nonprofits apply for grants in one of three categories: Projects, Education, and Capacity-Building. Keep an eye out for our 2023 grant round opening in December! Capacity-Building grants are highly competitive and specially designed for arts-centered nonprofit organizations who are seeking support to expand their reach and impact through the arts in their community. This category was added in 2016 as Quad City Arts saw a need for small organizations to have access to funds to increase their capacity. Arts Dollars has funded important organizational infrastructure support like strategic planning, database solutions, temporary staff, and more. This year, Quad City Arts received additional funding from a funder who wishes to remain anonymous to fund Visual Artist Grants. The purpose of these funds is to provide visual artists with the funding they need to focus on their craft. The artists in this cohort also have the unique opportunity to participate in masterclasses coordinated by Quad City Arts. Our 2022 grant awards were recommended by a panel of community members who sifted through the nearly $130,000* in requests from across the region and approved by Quad City Arts Board of Directors. Please join us in celebrating these individuals and organizations! We are excited about the impact each one will make on our community as they advance their mission and the mission of Quad City Arts: to enrich the quality of life in the Quad City region through the arts. *This amount does not include the Visual Artist Grant requests. 
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| Amber Williams Mural Artist David Zahn Sculpture Dena Border Acrylic on Cotton Gabriella Torres Acrylic on Canvas Heidi Sallows Mural Artist | Joseph Lappie Paper Art Lori Roderick Clay/Pottery Nathan Parr Large scale photography Tommy Riefe Sculpture Lee McClain Metalworking |
The Quad City Arts team is growing and we are happy to welcome to our group a new Gallery Assistant, Abi Kongkousonh! Abi is a hidden jewel, she's an incredible illustrator and artist, she blew us away with her portfolio. Not only is she a talented artist, she in an experienced data entry processor and will be helping us with some pretty large projects this summer. You will be seeing Abi greet you at the front desk of the gallery, so don't be shy and say hello!
Are you a Quad Cities native? What brought you to the Quad Cities?
Yes! I was born in Davenport, and I have lived in East Moline my whole life. My mom is also a QC native, and my dad and his family have lived here since the 80s after they immigrated from Laos.
What is your biggest achievement/goal/moment of success to date – personal or professional?
I think it was getting into the Lockdown show here at QC Arts this past fall. That was the first show I applied for by myself, and I was so proud to be a part of such a great show.
Are you a Quad Cities native? What brought you to the Quad Cities?
Yes! I was born in Davenport, and I have lived in East Moline my whole life. My mom is also a QC native, and my dad and his family have lived here since the 80s after they immigrated from Laos.
What is your biggest achievement/goal/moment of success to date – personal or professional?
I think it was getting into the Lockdown show here at QC Arts this past fall. That was the first show I applied for by myself, and I was so proud to be a part of such a great show.
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How did you first learn about Quad City Arts?
In 2019 I saw someone on Facebook share a post about Chalkfest, which I entered just for fun. Then I just kept up with Quad City Arts news. I was in the Lockdown show in 2021 and have attended Riverssance and Festival of Trees. When a job position opened up, I felt like I would be a good fit.
Abi at Chalk Art Fest
What are you most excited for in your role at Quad City Arts?
I am most excited to see the talent we have locally up and close!
What is your favorite arts experience in the Quad Cities?
I love musical theater, and the QC has quite a few community theaters. I think my favorite show was Mary Poppins at the Music Guild a few years ago, but I try to go to as many shows as I can.
What is your favorite arts experience outside of the Quad Cities?
I went to the Philadelphia Museum of Art a few years back. At the time they were hosting a traveling exhibit of Impressionist artworks so I got to see several Monet and Degas pieces. I think I was pissing off the security team off--I was standing so close to the artwork trying to take it all in.
 |   Some of Abi's amazing artwork. She doesn't brag, so we'll do it for her! |
Who is your favorite artist? (This can be any artist – visual, performing, etc.)
Just one? Greta Gerwig is an artist I look up to. Her work in Frances Ha was incredibly impactful on me, and her directorial roles in Lady Bird and Little Women were extraordinary.
What is one thing that might surprise people about you?
I have never been on a roller coaster, and I don't really like amusement parks. It's too hot. I don't like the food. I get sick on the rides. I like to say I was born to be mild.
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This wouldn't be a true questionnaire without throwing a few questions in from our Seven With Kevin Series! What are you currently watching on Netflix or TV?
I just finished re-watching the Umbrella Academy and now I'm starting Shtisel, a show about an ultra Orthodox Jewish community.
Star Wars or Star Trek?
I don't want my nerd card revoked, but I don't love either. When it comes to epic space sci-fi, I'm almost exclusively a Doctor Who girl. In terms of nostalgia, I could go with Star Wars though. My brother and I used to hit each other with plastic lightsabers in our backyard and play Lego Star Wars the video game on the Wii.
Where is the best pizza in the Quad Cities (or where you are from)?
Fields of Pizza is my go-to, but honestly is there such a thing as bad pizza??
What is your favorite book?
I'm a huge reader so this is impossible. Today, I'll go with Neil Gaiman's The Ocean at the End of the Lane.
Where is your go-to place for inspiration?
I have a huge box of old magazines, receipts, and collage paper in a spare room at home. Whenever I need inspiration I like making something nonsensical with those junk supplies.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
I'd be a super good librarian.
I just finished re-watching the Umbrella Academy and now I'm starting Shtisel, a show about an ultra Orthodox Jewish community.
Star Wars or Star Trek?
I don't want my nerd card revoked, but I don't love either. When it comes to epic space sci-fi, I'm almost exclusively a Doctor Who girl. In terms of nostalgia, I could go with Star Wars though. My brother and I used to hit each other with plastic lightsabers in our backyard and play Lego Star Wars the video game on the Wii.
Where is the best pizza in the Quad Cities (or where you are from)?
Fields of Pizza is my go-to, but honestly is there such a thing as bad pizza??
What is your favorite book?
I'm a huge reader so this is impossible. Today, I'll go with Neil Gaiman's The Ocean at the End of the Lane.
Where is your go-to place for inspiration?
I have a huge box of old magazines, receipts, and collage paper in a spare room at home. Whenever I need inspiration I like making something nonsensical with those junk supplies.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
I'd be a super good librarian.
Abi becoming best friends with Makoto Fujimura!
If you could have a drink with any artist living or dead who would it be?
Makoto Fujimura is an American artist with a Swedish and Japanese ethnic background, which is similar to mine. He believes in slow living and culture care through art. I'd love to pick his brain.
When you see Abi around, make sure to say hello! We're so lucky to have such a talented new artist on our team!
Makoto Fujimura is an American artist with a Swedish and Japanese ethnic background, which is similar to mine. He believes in slow living and culture care through art. I'd love to pick his brain.
When you see Abi around, make sure to say hello! We're so lucky to have such a talented new artist on our team!
The 48th season of Quad City Arts’ Visiting Artist Series will conclude with musicians presenting brass, Mexican folk and rock, and jazz in educational outreaches around the QCA.
Brass band quintet High & Mighty Brass Band will visit nine schools in the greater Quad City area during their March 22-25 residence.
Since NYC drummer Evan Howard started the band back in 2009, there’s a reason legendary groups like Galactic, Eli “Paperboy” Reed, and Lake Street Dive collaborated with High and Mighty Brass Band. This rotating cast has toured all over the world, including major performances at Bonnaroo, The U.S. Open, and the Governors Ball Music Festival. They entertain crowds with both their original music and fresh take on current and classic cover songs.
Brass band quintet High & Mighty Brass Band will visit nine schools in the greater Quad City area during their March 22-25 residence.
Since NYC drummer Evan Howard started the band back in 2009, there’s a reason legendary groups like Galactic, Eli “Paperboy” Reed, and Lake Street Dive collaborated with High and Mighty Brass Band. This rotating cast has toured all over the world, including major performances at Bonnaroo, The U.S. Open, and the Governors Ball Music Festival. They entertain crowds with both their original music and fresh take on current and classic cover songs.
High & Mighty Brass Band will perform as part of Quad City Arts’ Performing Arts Signature Series 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 24, at the Stern Center, Rock Island. Individual tickets are $50 per person for the performance, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres, and are available at www.quadcityarts.com/pass.
The next visiting artist, Mexican folk/rock quintet Jarabe Mexicano, will visit the Quad Cities April 4-8 and present to nine area schools.
Jarabe Mexicano invites audiences on a joyride through a versatile songbook of Mexican Folk as well as rock & roll, Tex-Mex, Latin rock, and reggae-cumbia. Performing on stringed folk instruments accompanied by lively percussion, Jarabe’s dramatic, harmonized vocals in Spanish and English have gained them the admiration of audiences across the country.
The next visiting artist, Mexican folk/rock quintet Jarabe Mexicano, will visit the Quad Cities April 4-8 and present to nine area schools.
Jarabe Mexicano invites audiences on a joyride through a versatile songbook of Mexican Folk as well as rock & roll, Tex-Mex, Latin rock, and reggae-cumbia. Performing on stringed folk instruments accompanied by lively percussion, Jarabe’s dramatic, harmonized vocals in Spanish and English have gained them the admiration of audiences across the country.
Jarabe Mexicano’s public concert will be 7 p.m. Friday, April 8, at the United Township High School, East Moline. General admission tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students, Tickets can be purchased in advance through Quad City Arts at https://sforce.co/3I4daFa or at the door. This public concert reflects hosting partnerships that allows Quad City Arts to reach a different audience, expanding on our outreach efforts in new venues. Partnerships like this one are aimed at activating new spaces and reaching more people.
Jazz and R&B band LP And the Vinyl will be the final artist in residence for the 2021-2022 Visiting Artist Series.
Jazz and R&B band LP And the Vinyl will be the final artist in residence for the 2021-2022 Visiting Artist Series.
Four San Diego-based musicians came together with a purpose: explore the art of song in their own unique way! Renowned jazz, blues and gospel singer Leonard Patton teamed up with the critically acclaimed Danny Green Trio to form LP And The Vinyl. The band’s wide array of influences includes everything from jazz, R&B, and rock, to 80’s and 90’s hits, Brazilian music, and classical music. Blending these sounds together, LP And The Vinyl has created a highly unique and personal approach to music-making.
During their residency April 25-29, they will present to 10 area schools, Moline Public Library, the Butterworth Center, Moline, the Jackson Concert Series at Wesley United Methodist Church, Muscatine, and the Geneseo Public Library. All these events are free and open to the public!
For more information on public events during the spring semester of the Visiting Artist Series, visit www.quadcityarts.com/events.
The series serves students and community members in Clinton, Scott, and Muscatine Counties in Iowa, and Henry, Rock Island, and Mercer Counties in Illinois.
During the 2019-2020 season when artists last visited the Quad Cities, more than 26,600 students participated in the program. Experiences included drama workshops for high school students with an East Coast theatre ensemble, a technique discussion for junior high band students from a Toronto, Canada jazz ensemble, side-by-side concert performance with a Texas string quartet, hip-hop dance presentations on history and technique for elementary students— all arts experiences that students would otherwise not have access to.
Since 1974, the Visiting Artist 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 on this residency program, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas.
Thank you to our Supporters
Quad City Arts receives significant support for the Visiting Artist Series from Regional Development Authority, Scott County Regional Authority, Bechtel Charitable Trust, National Endowment of the Arts, Iowa Arts Council, Illinois Arts Council, Quad Cities Cultural Trust, Rock Island Community Foundation, Melvin McKay Trust, Mary Iva Gittens Knouse Trust, Moline Rotary, Rauch Family Foundation I, Kiwanis Club of Davenport, and Quad City Arts donors.
During their residency April 25-29, they will present to 10 area schools, Moline Public Library, the Butterworth Center, Moline, the Jackson Concert Series at Wesley United Methodist Church, Muscatine, and the Geneseo Public Library. All these events are free and open to the public!
For more information on public events during the spring semester of the Visiting Artist Series, visit www.quadcityarts.com/events.
The series serves students and community members in Clinton, Scott, and Muscatine Counties in Iowa, and Henry, Rock Island, and Mercer Counties in Illinois.
During the 2019-2020 season when artists last visited the Quad Cities, more than 26,600 students participated in the program. Experiences included drama workshops for high school students with an East Coast theatre ensemble, a technique discussion for junior high band students from a Toronto, Canada jazz ensemble, side-by-side concert performance with a Texas string quartet, hip-hop dance presentations on history and technique for elementary students— all arts experiences that students would otherwise not have access to.
Since 1974, the Visiting Artist 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 on this residency program, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas.
Thank you to our Supporters
Quad City Arts receives significant support for the Visiting Artist Series from Regional Development Authority, Scott County Regional Authority, Bechtel Charitable Trust, National Endowment of the Arts, Iowa Arts Council, Illinois Arts Council, Quad Cities Cultural Trust, Rock Island Community Foundation, Melvin McKay Trust, Mary Iva Gittens Knouse Trust, Moline Rotary, Rauch Family Foundation I, Kiwanis Club of Davenport, and Quad City Arts donors.
Metro Art students working on a mural design concept at Moline's Bass Street Landing
Since the summer of 2000, Metro Arts has provided area youth 15-21 years old with paid summer apprenticeships in various arts disciplines. The program provides opportunities for youth and enhances the community through the arts. For five weeks, area youth work together in groups to complete art projects under the supervision and mentorship of professional artists. Participants learn the artistic techniques and applications of their genre while developing personally and professionally.
As part of Quad City Arts’ continued focus on equity and accessibility the Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program expanded program offerings in 2021. In 2021, the program introduced projects in graphic design, poetry, and film. These projects were designed to be accessible to students with interest in multiple creative areas. The graphic design program was developed in partnership with Black Hawk College, so students did not need to provide their own computer, design software licenses, or any other equipment. Film and poetry were also designed in a similar manner. “We are excited to continue to offer more accessible options for our paid arts apprenticeship program,” says Executive Director, Kevin Maynard.
This year’s Metro Arts program will start on Monday, June 6 and end on Thursday, July 7. Apprentices will meet for up to four hours Monday through Thursday. Apprentices receive a stipend of $500, and Senior Apprentices (project leaders) receive a stipend of $750.
As part of Quad City Arts’ continued focus on equity and accessibility the Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program expanded program offerings in 2021. In 2021, the program introduced projects in graphic design, poetry, and film. These projects were designed to be accessible to students with interest in multiple creative areas. The graphic design program was developed in partnership with Black Hawk College, so students did not need to provide their own computer, design software licenses, or any other equipment. Film and poetry were also designed in a similar manner. “We are excited to continue to offer more accessible options for our paid arts apprenticeship program,” says Executive Director, Kevin Maynard.
This year’s Metro Arts program will start on Monday, June 6 and end on Thursday, July 7. Apprentices will meet for up to four hours Monday through Thursday. Apprentices receive a stipend of $500, and Senior Apprentices (project leaders) receive a stipend of $750.
The program is highly rewarding for apprentices as expressed by a 2020 Metro Arts Apprentice, Maggie Pope:
"Last year was my first year doing the Summer Mural Painting, and I can confidently say I developed so many skills just within the month and a half of working for Metro Arts. In that short amount of time, I found myself wishing to go to work everyday— which is almost an impossible task when you’re required to work in the one-hundred degree heat with a mask on. Being with the artists around me helped me learn so many new strategies and techniques with painting. They also gave me a whole new perspective on how the process of large projects are made. Most of all, though, the artists around me turned me into a better person. I literally felt myself being more happy and successful in my work, which is a dream everyone wants."
"Last year was my first year doing the Summer Mural Painting, and I can confidently say I developed so many skills just within the month and a half of working for Metro Arts. In that short amount of time, I found myself wishing to go to work everyday— which is almost an impossible task when you’re required to work in the one-hundred degree heat with a mask on. Being with the artists around me helped me learn so many new strategies and techniques with painting. They also gave me a whole new perspective on how the process of large projects are made. Most of all, though, the artists around me turned me into a better person. I literally felt myself being more happy and successful in my work, which is a dream everyone wants."
Poetry:
This project will be led by Lead Artist, Aubrey Barnes. Apprentices will learn the elements of creating poetry including rhyming schemes, it’s cross-section with music, and more. Apprentices will have opportunities to workshop and present the pieces they create, and at the end will see their work published in a chapbook.
This project will be led by Lead Artist, Aubrey Barnes. Apprentices will learn the elements of creating poetry including rhyming schemes, it’s cross-section with music, and more. Apprentices will have opportunities to workshop and present the pieces they create, and at the end will see their work published in a chapbook.
 | Aubrey Barnes, Poetry Lead Artist Aubrey Barnes is an emcee, poet, educator, and author of "Unfin-" and "I'm Not Anti-Love, I Swear." With six years and hundreds of poems and songs under his belt, Aubrey's work encapsulates his unique experience as a black male living in a small region in the Midwest called the Quad Cities; from being a product of rap, to social divides that played a part in shaping his worldview. Aubrey has performed and taught workshops all over; from Chicago, Atlanta, to regions outside the country such as Haiti. He was also ranked number three best slam poet in the state of Iowa in June of 2019 by the Iowa Writers Organization. His poetry workshops consist of teaching the art from the context of rap and battle rap, exposing students to the lyrical and social richness that is within these arts. Being an individual who wears many creative hats, Aubrey aims to provoke ears with his lyrical, battle rap influenced penmanship, as well as provoke thought, with content that reflects all that he has journeyed through, or is journeying through. |
Film:
Apprentices will work closely with independent filmmaker and educator Jonathan Burnett and learn the art of filmmaking through the entire process. Apprentices will create a short film including writing the script, filming, editing, sound design, and more. Apprentices will learn the elements of film design using professional equipment, but walk away with an understanding that can be translated to creating short films on something as small as a cell phone.
Apprentices will work closely with independent filmmaker and educator Jonathan Burnett and learn the art of filmmaking through the entire process. Apprentices will create a short film including writing the script, filming, editing, sound design, and more. Apprentices will learn the elements of film design using professional equipment, but walk away with an understanding that can be translated to creating short films on something as small as a cell phone.
 | Jonathan Burnett, Film Lead Artist Independent filmmaker and Educator Jonathan Burnett is a native of Rock Island, Illinois. Jonathan studied and received his training in film production and visual media, obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Academy of Art University, San Francisco, CA, and a Master of Fine Arts from Loyola Marymount University. He has written, directed, produced, and filmed several projects during his tenure. Jonathan worked on professional films in France, Algeria, and Atlanta, Georgia. He is also the Creator, Director, and Lead Instructor of the Urban Exposure Independent Film Program, a ten week intensive program that teaches the basics of filmmaking to youth in the Midwest. Jonathan’s thesis film “Smoke & Mirrors” completed its festival tour. It has been shown in nine different festivals across the United States and has won 2 awards for Best Short Film and Best Student Film at the Alternating Currents Film Festival in Davenport, Iowa. Jonathan is now an adjunct professor at Loyola Marymount University and is also working with his father, Honorary Oscar Recipient, Charles Burnett to produce feature films and television content. |
Mural Painting:
Led by Lead Artist, Sarah Robb, apprentices will work with a client to determine their wants in a mural, then work as a team to create two or more concepts to be presented. Once the client offers feedback the apprentices will get to work on making their concept take shape into a beautiful mural.
Led by Lead Artist, Sarah Robb, apprentices will work with a client to determine their wants in a mural, then work as a team to create two or more concepts to be presented. Once the client offers feedback the apprentices will get to work on making their concept take shape into a beautiful mural.
 | Sarah Robb, Mural Design Lead Artist Sarah Jean Robb was raised in Davenport, Iowa. She received her BFA in Illustration with a minor in Graphic Design from Laguna College of Art & Design in Laguna Beach, CA. Sarah devoted nine years to her art career in California entering a variety of exhibits, creating murals and commissioned jobs. Still, the desire to rediscover her roots resulted in moving back to Davenport, IA sixteen years ago where she continues to pursue her passion and career as an artist. Since returning in 2006, she has been the Lead Artist for Mural Design with the QC Arts Metro Arts Summer Youth Program, a position she has been proud to occupy since 2007. Her love for large scale public art murals and working with the community has led to commissioned projects with The City of Moline, Rock Island, and Davenport, Palmer College of Chiropractic, Child Abuse Council, Augustana College, Dress for Success, Boys & Girls Club of the Mississippi Valley, Schuetzen Park with German Heritage, and many more. |
Graphic Design:
Under the direction of Annie Oldenburg, apprentices will learn the basics of graphic design using the Adobe suite. In 2021, apprentices created vinyl wraps for windows in Downtown Rock Island to showcase what sort of businesses they wanted to see more of in Downtown Rock Island. The 2022, design project will be similar, but is still being developed.
Under the direction of Annie Oldenburg, apprentices will learn the basics of graphic design using the Adobe suite. In 2021, apprentices created vinyl wraps for windows in Downtown Rock Island to showcase what sort of businesses they wanted to see more of in Downtown Rock Island. The 2022, design project will be similar, but is still being developed.
 | Annie Oldenburg, Graphic Design Lead Artist Annie Oldenburg is a conceptual artist working with digital media to explore landscape and disruption. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts from the University of Wisconsin in Green Bay and her Master of Fine Arts in Visual Studies from the Hallie Ford School of Graduate Studies at Willamette University's Pacific Northwest College of Art. Since earning her degrees, Oldenburg has pursued her passion for pedagogy. She currently teaches studio art and digital media at Black Hawk College. Oldenburg has exhibited her work in galleries nationwide, including Blue Sky in Oregon, 407 Gallery in Wisconsin, and Resonator in Oklahoma. When she isn't teaching or busy with art, you can find her traveling the country, playing disc golf, and hanging with her pups, Clover and Korra. For more information, or to view some of her recent projects, visit her website: https://www.anniethingart.com/ |
Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship projects begin on June 7 and will conclude on July 9.
Apprentices will meet Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
*Friday, July 8 is the only Friday apprentices may be needed to make final touches on projects.*
Apprentices will meet Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
*Friday, July 8 is the only Friday apprentices may be needed to make final touches on projects.*
Hiplet Ballerinas on Good Morning America
Beginning Feb. 28, Chicago Multicultural Dance Center’s select Hiplet Ballerina Company will visit the Quad Cities for a week in residence through Quad City Arts’ 2021-2022 Visiting Artist Series.
Hiplet Ballerinas first found fame in 2016 when their videos went viral on BuzzFeed, Good Morning America, and The Huffington Post. Since then, they’ve traveled the world performing in Paris Fashion Week, at half-time shows for the NBA, in Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year’s Day Parade, and more.
Hiplet Ballerinas first found fame in 2016 when their videos went viral on BuzzFeed, Good Morning America, and The Huffington Post. Since then, they’ve traveled the world performing in Paris Fashion Week, at half-time shows for the NBA, in Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year’s Day Parade, and more.
Hiplet Ballerinas on America's Got Talent
Hiplet fuses classical pointe technique with African, Latin, hip-hop and urban dance styles that are rooted in communities of color. It was specifically designed to make ballet accessible to all, by mixing it with current popular songs that will be familiar to audiences who don’t normally attend ballet performances. Performances may incorporate the rhythms of African drums with Tchaikovsky, arabesques and beat-boxing or even Tango en pointe - all while showcasing audiences will recognize from Black Violin to Beyonce. After features on Good Morning America, Buzzfeed, and The Huffington Post the new art form went viral in spring 2016 and has now amassed over a billion views.
During their residence Feb. 28 through March 5, Hiplet will visit 10 elementary schools, a junior high, and a high school, bringing Hiplet's trademark sass, hip movements, and struts against popular music to Quad City school audiences. This educational residency of Hiplet Ballet is sponsored by David and Peg Iglehart.
During their residence Feb. 28 through March 5, Hiplet will visit 10 elementary schools, a junior high, and a high school, bringing Hiplet's trademark sass, hip movements, and struts against popular music to Quad City school audiences. This educational residency of Hiplet Ballet is sponsored by David and Peg Iglehart.
Their full-length public performance will be 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, Galvin Fine Arts Center at St. Ambrose University, 518 Locust St., Davenport, IA 52803. This must-see show fuses classical pointe technique with urban dance, fueled by inclusivity, modern movement, and Instagram-ready style. Come see the company everyone is talking about during this special one night engagement.
Tickets for Hiplet Ballerinas are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors/faculty, $10 for children, and can be purchased online at https://www.showtix4u.com/event-details/60268 or at the door. For more information, call the Galvin box office at 563-333-6251.
The rest of the spring includes High & Mighty Brass Band March 22-25, Mexican folk/rock quintet Jarabe Mexicano April 4-8, and R&B and jazz group LP And The Vinyl April 25-29. For more information on public events during the spring semester of the Visiting Artist Series, visit https://www.quadcityarts.com/events.html.
The series serves students and community members in Clinton, Scott, and Muscatine Counties in Iowa, and Henry, Rock Island, and Mercer Counties in Illinois.
During the 2019-2020 season when artists last visited the Quad Cities, more than 26,600 students participated in the program. Experiences included drama workshops for high school students with an East Coast theatre ensemble, a technique discussion for junior high band students from a Toronto, Canada jazz ensemble, side-by-side concert performance with a Texas string quartet, hip-hop dance presentations on history and technique for elementary students— all arts experiences that students would otherwise not have access to.
Since 1974, the Visiting Artist 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.
The educational residency of Hiplet Ballet is sponsored by David and Peg Iglehart.
For more information on this residency program, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas.
The Quad City Arts team is growing and we are happy to welcome to our group a new Events Coordinator, Ben Gougeon! Ben has had a very decorated acting career but at the root of his passion is creating theatrical experiences for the public to enjoy. We can't wait to see him add flare to all of our events. Get to know a little bit about Ben and his incredible roles!
Are you a Quad Cities native? What brought you to the Quad Cities? I actually grew up in northern Michigan, but did go to grad school at Western Illinois University in Macomb. After spending 11 years living and working in NYC as an actor, I relocated to the QCA in 2019 to raise a family with my amazing partner Liz, who was born and raised in the area.
What is your biggest achievement/goal/moment of success to date – personal or professional? Oh gosh. I mean, the most recognizable would certainly be some of the TV acting work I’ve done. One of my favorites there was getting to be on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. I love that show! I got to do a scene with Alex Borstein, who plays Susie. She won an Emmy for that season, so I like to think I hold a tiny, tiny part of that…ha! Also, getting to work with Maggie Gyllenhaal on The Deuce was incredible. To work with someone of her stature, and seeing the excellence, professionalism, and grace with which she goes about her business was amazing to witness firsthand. Personally though, it’s hands down the birth of my son. He’s 18 months old and just the most incredible little fellow.
Video clip from Golden Globes Nominated film "The Deuce" (2019)
 Ben on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel |  Still of CBS TV Series "Bull" |  Still of CBS TV Series "Bull" |
How did you first learn about Quad City Arts? We live in the Broadway District in Rock Island, so frequently walk through the downtown area. I knew it was there, but my first real ‘experience’ with the organization was attending last year’s Chalk Art Festival. We brought the kids down, watched the artists at work, danced to some great music, and had a wonderful time! But as I’ve learned more about the organization, it’s truly amazing all the work and programs that Quad City Arts plays a role in: MetroArts, Riverssance, Festival of Trees, Visiting Artists and the Performing Arts Signature Series, among others. They have such an incredible reach into so many facets of our community.
What are you most excited for in your role at Quad City Arts? Getting the chance to see and meet all the incredible artists that Quad City Arts works with, both locally and those they bring into our community. One of the things I really miss about New York is the sheer amount of cultural events, performances, and experiences that are at your fingertips, and it’s great to see an organization that’s dedicated to supporting and promoting artists in so many mediums.
What is your favorite arts experience in the Quad Cities? That’s a tough question to answer, as I moved here just a few months before the COVID struck and the world shut down, and with our little guy, we’ve been very selective with what sort of public experiences we’ve engaged in. But I really love the Figge, and saw a wonderful production of The Goat; or Who Is Sylvia? by the QC Theatre Workshop. Also, the QCSO is phenomenal!
 Ben as Watson in "The Hound of the Baskervilles" production, Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre in Arrow Rock, MO |  Bob Cratchit in A Christmas Carol at Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre in Arrow Rock, MO |
What is your favorite arts experience outside of the Quad Cities? One that really sticks out is The Hypocrites production of Marie Irene Fornes’ Mudin Chicago in 2007. Also, I was travelling in Poland in 2012, and stumbled upon a production of Stanislaw Witkiewicz’s Anonymous Work by Teatre Witkacy in Zakopane. It was all in Polish, and I didn’t understand more than a handful of words, but the work was so specific and impassioned that it didn’t matter. Both were incredible examples of alive, immediate theatre. Art-wise, seeing Jackson Pollack’s One: Number 31, 1950 in person at MoMA was pretty overwhelming.
Who is your favorite artist? (This can be any artist – visual, performing, etc.) Visually, I love Picasso. The lens through which he paints is so unique and insightful, even today. His work always jumps off the wall for me. Seeing Guernica in person is on my bucket list; that piece is incredible.
What is one thing that might surprise people about you? I’m an avid Detroit sports fan, especially the Tigers and Pistons. I love fantasy sports, especially basketball, and consider myself a bit of an NBA junkie. Also, I’m amazingly good at Candyland.
Ben answering tough questions on the 2017 film "The Price"
This wouldn't be a true questionnaire without throwing a few questions in from our Seven With Kevin Series! What are you currently watching on Netflix or TV? We just finished watching the first half of Ozark’s final season, and I absolutely love that show. Also, Somebody Somewhere on HBO has very quickly leapt into my pantheon of favorite series, which includes Transparent, I Love Dick, and Breaking Bad.
Star Wars or Star Trek? Star Wars all day. I was born in 1977, so it’s in my DNA. Part of the reason I wanted to be an actor was because I wanted to be the next Harrison Ford. I’ve ended up shooting for Sean Astin or Stephen Root, but hey, genetics (and a love of cookies)!
Where is the best pizza in the Quad Cities (or where you are from)? Well, I’ve not had Harris Pizza yet, which I’ve heard great things about, but we’re partial to Happy Joe’s and Papa Murphy’s. However, Monarch is hands down the best meal I’ve had in town, and Red Band’s Egg and Chorizo Sandwich is addictive!
What is your favorite book? I’m a big LOTR fan, any Samuel Beckett, and House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski. That book blew my mind with its construction. Phillip Roth’s American Pastoral is also really high on the list.
Where is your go-to place for inspiration? Nothing is more exciting than an empty space. Walking in and imagining what might fill it. Anything from store fronts to warehouses to homes. I’m always looking for a place to create a theatrical event.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? So many!! I grew up wanting to be a marine biologist or oceanographer, and then realized it wasn’t the right fit the first time I got into open water. But I’d love to swim with and study and photograph blue whales. The sheer majesty and scale of them makes you realize your place in this enormous world. Maybe I’ll settle for being a crew member with Sea Shepherd.
If you could have a drink with any artist living or dead who would it be? Samuel Beckett. His writing hits me in such a visceral way that, to me, always speaks to the hope in humanity that we need to continue to cultivate.
When you see Ben around, make sure to welcome him to the Quad Cities! He is currently hitting the ground running and planning our summer events, as well as helping out with the Visiting Artist Series. We're lucky to have such a cool new team member!
Two public concerts have been announced in conjunction with the February artists in residence from Quad City Arts’ 2021-2022 Visiting Artist Series.
Classical crossover string trio Time For Three will conclude their three-day Quad City residency with a public concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, at Bettendorf Performing Arts Center, 3333 18th St., Bettendorf. String trio Time for Three has recently helped score the Netflix drama Land, the film marks the directorial debut of actress Robin Wright who also stars in the movie. General admission tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students. Seating is limited to 150 tickets total. Tickets can be purchased through Quad City Arts at https://sforce.co/3r08Wt6. Time For Three’s residency will be Feb. 15-17 and will serve six schools in the greater Quad City area.
Classical crossover string trio Time For Three will conclude their three-day Quad City residency with a public concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, at Bettendorf Performing Arts Center, 3333 18th St., Bettendorf. String trio Time for Three has recently helped score the Netflix drama Land, the film marks the directorial debut of actress Robin Wright who also stars in the movie. General admission tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students. Seating is limited to 150 tickets total. Tickets can be purchased through Quad City Arts at https://sforce.co/3r08Wt6. Time For Three’s residency will be Feb. 15-17 and will serve six schools in the greater Quad City area.
On Saturday, Feb. 26, visiting artist and accomplished pianist/composer Barron Ryan will team up with his Steinway-sponsored father for a performance by Ryan & Ryan of their “Going Gershwin” program 7 p.m. at the Concert Hall at Geneseo High School, Geneseo, Ill. General admission tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students. Barron Ryan has recently been named by the Smithsonian Magazine as one of "Ten Innovators to Watch". Tickets are available online at https://sforce.co/3tZDY6i. Barron Ryan will visit the Quad Cities Feb. 21-25 and present to area schools, the DeWitt Community Library, Black Hawk College, and the Jackson Concert Series at Wesley United Methodist Church, Muscatine, among others.
These public concerts reflect hosting partnerships that allow Quad City Arts to reach a different audience, expanding on our outreach efforts in new venues. These partnerships are aimed at activating new spaces and reaching more people.
The rest of the spring includes classical ballet and hip-hop fusion dance company Hiplet Ballet Feb. 28 through March 5, High & Mighty Brass Band March 22-25, Mexican folk/rock quintet Jarabe Mexicano April 4-8, and R&B and jazz group LP And The Vinyl April 25-29. For more information on free public events during the spring season of the Visiting Artist Series, visit https://www.quadcityarts.com/events.
The series serves students and community members in Clinton, Scott, and Muscatine Counties in Iowa, and Henry, Rock Island, and Mercer Counties in Illinois. During the 2019-2020 season when artists last visited the Quad Cities, more than 26,600 students participated in the program. Experiences included drama workshops for high school students with an East Coast theatre ensemble, a technique discussion for junior high band students from a Toronto, Canada jazz ensemble, side-by-side concert performance with a Texas string quartet, hip-hop dance presentations on history and technique for elementary students— all arts experiences that students would otherwise not have access to.
Since 1974, the Visiting Artist 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 on this residency program, how to schedule artists at a school or community site, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas.
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What would you create with $5,000? – Would you buy new equipment to take pictures of the beauties in the city? Would you paint a mural that touches the sky? Would you create your next masterpiece? Quad City Arts is offering a new grant to help local artists keep creating.
Quad City Arts’ annual Arts Dollars Grant Program is back this year with several grants including a new Visual Artists Grant. This Visual Artists Grant, funded by an anonymous donor, offers $5,000 dollars to visual artists in support of their creative endeavors. The grant is open-ended and can be used however each recipient sees fit, up to 20% can go straight to the artist pocket as payment to them and the other 80% can be used for a number of things including buying supplies, studio rent, marketing, and ANYTHING that helps the artist continue to create. Each selected artist will also be required to attend two meetings in which are put in place to support the artist through the progression of the year.
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Quad City Arts strived to support artists and help them continue to cultivate art here in the QC. With an accessible and uncomplicated application, this Visual Artist Grant is open to any and all visual artists in the area. The application asks for a short artist’s narrative, the artist's resume, and work samples. If you see yourself as a visual artist, apply! With a diverse community panel of judges making the decision, any artist could receive this grant.
Gabi Torres in her Clinton, Iowa studio.
Previous Arts Dollars Grant recipient Gabi Torres shares what this opportunity meant for her, “I am really grateful for what the Quad City Arts has been doing in supporting local artist, it has been a game-changer for me personally…it felt wonderful and amazing [to be awarded]. This was the first grant I had received as an artist so it was very validating and so encouraging.” Through the grant, Torres is working to bring more modern art to the Clinton area. In doing that, she has begun working with the Sawmill Museum in Clinton where later this year she will have a free to the public, interactive exhibit displaying a collection of her abstract work.
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Torres also shared her feelings towards the new Visual Artist Grant being offered this year, “It is a tremendous opportunity. In talking with lots of artists we’ve all agreed that the grants aimed to help support the buying of materials or a specific project are amazing and wonderful, but it is difficult for us because very few grants support the artist and their time and their actual labor this grant opportunity is different [since 20% can go straight to the artist pocket]. The Visual Artist Grant is a wonderful opportunity for artists in the whole Quad Cities greater area, it is trailblazing.”
Applications are due January 31, 2022
Recipients will be notified no later than March 15, 2022
Applications are due January 31, 2022
Recipients will be notified no later than March 15, 2022
Quad City Arts is pleased to announce Arts Dollars grants for the 2022 cycle. Applications are welcome from individual artists, K-12 schools, and non-profit organizations partnering with artists. All art forms are eligible. Since 1990, Quad City Arts has supported the local art community by awarding more than $1,000,000 in grants to local artists, non-profit organizations, and schools.
This year, Quad City Arts has received additional funding from a funder who wishes to remain anonymous to fund Visual Artist Grants. In total, Quad City Arts will grant $140,000 to local artists and organizations during this grant cycle. The application process is competitive, and applicants are encouraged to apply before the deadline. Quad City Arts staff are available to assist with the application process.
This year, Quad City Arts has received additional funding from a funder who wishes to remain anonymous to fund Visual Artist Grants. In total, Quad City Arts will grant $140,000 to local artists and organizations during this grant cycle. The application process is competitive, and applicants are encouraged to apply before the deadline. Quad City Arts staff are available to assist with the application process.
GRANT CATEGORIES
NEW THIS YEAR - Visual Artist Grants supports visual artists who demonstrate exceptional creativity in the arts, innovation, and contribute to the vitality of the Quad City Region. Selected artists will be offered professional development designed specifically for artists and be granted $5,000 where up to 20% can be allocated to artist salary.
Project Grants support arts projects or programming that primarily emphasize community engagement. Individual artists may apply for up to $2,500. Non-profit organizations and schools may apply for up to $5,000.
Education Grants support projects or programming that primarily provide opportunities in arts education for K-12 students. Individual artists may apply for up to $2,500. Non-profit organizations and schools may apply for up to $5,000.
Capacity-Building Grants fund activities that increase an organization’s overall capacity, organizational strength, and long-term community impact. Non-profit organizations may apply for up to $5,000.
Deadline for applications: January 31, 2022
Recipients will be notified no later than March 15, 2022.
Project Grants support arts projects or programming that primarily emphasize community engagement. Individual artists may apply for up to $2,500. Non-profit organizations and schools may apply for up to $5,000.
Education Grants support projects or programming that primarily provide opportunities in arts education for K-12 students. Individual artists may apply for up to $2,500. Non-profit organizations and schools may apply for up to $5,000.
Capacity-Building Grants fund activities that increase an organization’s overall capacity, organizational strength, and long-term community impact. Non-profit organizations may apply for up to $5,000.
Deadline for applications: January 31, 2022
Recipients will be notified no later than March 15, 2022.
Funding for the 2022 Arts Dollars cycle is provided by the Hubbell-Waterman Foundation, the Illinois Arts Council Agency, a state agency, and an anonymous funder. All Quad City Arts programs are funded in part by Festival of Trees, individual donations, and operating grants from the Illinois Arts Council Agency, a state agency.
View last year's Art Dollars Grant Awardees and list of funded projects on our blog.
View last year's Art Dollars Grant Awardees and list of funded projects on our blog.
Be a part of Festival and experience the team work of one of the BIGGEST events in the Quad Cities!
It takes a village of over 2,000 volunteers to bring the magic of Festival to our community each year and we are thankful for all who donate their time to make it a success. Sign-up for a shift and receive FREE TICKET to come back and visit us again with family and friends.
Volunteering is perfect for:
It takes a village of over 2,000 volunteers to bring the magic of Festival to our community each year and we are thankful for all who donate their time to make it a success. Sign-up for a shift and receive FREE TICKET to come back and visit us again with family and friends.
Volunteering is perfect for:
- Corporate groups
- High school and college students
- Church or social group volunteers
- Committed community volunteers
Not sure what spot to volunteer for?
Here are quick descriptions to help you pick a volunteer spot:
Reindeer Games – Oversees a craft of game for younger visitors of Festival and ensures that everyone stays safe and has fun. Ideal for groups who want to volunteer together or high school students who need volunteer hours!
Be Original Gallery – Assist our Visual Arts Director and our staff with the curation and sales of items from our Rock Island gallery conveniently located at Festival!
Floater – Are you interested in helping but don’t really care where? Be a floater! This person helps cover the gap for us if we run short on volunteers. They also help keep Festival running smoothly by being a messenger and covering breaks.
Sales Floor Assistant – Helps bidders place their bids at Festival of Trees and helps direct visitors where they need to go. Ideal for someone who is comfortable using an iPad.
Raffle Ticket Sales – We need help selling raffle tickets for the over 100 raffle baskets at Festival of Trees! This is ideal for someone who enjoys talking to visitors and even for a small group of friends or family who want to volunteer together.
Raffle Ticket Collection – We need help collecting all the raffle tickets throughout the event! This is ideal for someone who has a shorter window of time to volunteer but still wants to do their part.
Raffle Ticket Counting – We need help counting all the raffle tickets throughout the event! This is ideal for someone who has a shorter window of time to volunteer but still wants to do their part.
Gingerbread Village – Be the mayor of Gingerbread Village for a few hours! Keep an eye on the gingerbread creations and assist visitors who wish to make a purchase. Ideal for someone who is looking for a more low-key experience!
Treat Shoppe – Help us make sure our Treat Shoppe is fully staffed!
Admissions Volunteer (3rd St, 2nd Floor, Performer’s entrance) – Be the first person to greet visitors as they arrive at Festival of Trees! This person should be comfortable in a fast-paced environment and with using
Square and iPad technology.
Per CDC recommendations, masks are required for volunteers and strongly encouraged for visitors.
Please email us if you have questions about volunteering at: qcfotvolunteers@gmail.com or fot@quadcityarts.com
Reindeer Games – Oversees a craft of game for younger visitors of Festival and ensures that everyone stays safe and has fun. Ideal for groups who want to volunteer together or high school students who need volunteer hours!
Be Original Gallery – Assist our Visual Arts Director and our staff with the curation and sales of items from our Rock Island gallery conveniently located at Festival!
Floater – Are you interested in helping but don’t really care where? Be a floater! This person helps cover the gap for us if we run short on volunteers. They also help keep Festival running smoothly by being a messenger and covering breaks.
Sales Floor Assistant – Helps bidders place their bids at Festival of Trees and helps direct visitors where they need to go. Ideal for someone who is comfortable using an iPad.
Raffle Ticket Sales – We need help selling raffle tickets for the over 100 raffle baskets at Festival of Trees! This is ideal for someone who enjoys talking to visitors and even for a small group of friends or family who want to volunteer together.
Raffle Ticket Collection – We need help collecting all the raffle tickets throughout the event! This is ideal for someone who has a shorter window of time to volunteer but still wants to do their part.
Raffle Ticket Counting – We need help counting all the raffle tickets throughout the event! This is ideal for someone who has a shorter window of time to volunteer but still wants to do their part.
Gingerbread Village – Be the mayor of Gingerbread Village for a few hours! Keep an eye on the gingerbread creations and assist visitors who wish to make a purchase. Ideal for someone who is looking for a more low-key experience!
Treat Shoppe – Help us make sure our Treat Shoppe is fully staffed!
Admissions Volunteer (3rd St, 2nd Floor, Performer’s entrance) – Be the first person to greet visitors as they arrive at Festival of Trees! This person should be comfortable in a fast-paced environment and with using
Square and iPad technology.
Per CDC recommendations, masks are required for volunteers and strongly encouraged for visitors.
Please email us if you have questions about volunteering at: qcfotvolunteers@gmail.com or fot@quadcityarts.com
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