 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.”  A Community-Driven Effort Quad City Arts played a key role in facilitating the artist selection process, ensuring that the murals reflect the voices and vision of the Rock Island community. The process was guided by public input, beginning with an open call for submissions and culminating in a community placemaking event at Rozz-Tox, where finalists were reviewed and voted on. The Rock Island Arts & Beautification Commission finalized the selections based on community feedback, reinforcing the idea that public art is most meaningful when it is shaped by the people who will experience it daily. Amber Williams, Chair of the Rock Island Arts & Beautification Commission, highlighted the unique harmony between the two selected murals. “Although different in style and execution, it is difficult to imagine two murals more suited to be near each other – remarkably with no collaboration between the artists. As an artist myself, both of these designs provide an intense sense of inspiration, akin to childlike wonder. I believe they will provide the same awe and enthusiasm for others as we welcome them to the exciting renovations of Arts Alley.” A Lasting Impact The completion of these murals marks just one phase of the ongoing revitalization of Arts Alley. Additional improvements, including a decorative walkway, new lighting, signage, and designated areas for performances and seasonal pop-up shops, have further transformed the space into a dynamic cultural hub. With a total project budget of over $534,000—half of which was funded by a State of Illinois Tourism Attractions grant—this initiative underscores the value of investing in public spaces to enhance community engagement and economic vitality. “As a long-time business and property owner in downtown Rock Island, I am very excited to see the new large-scale public art in Arts Alley become a reality,” said Jeff Dismer, Principal of Studio 483 Architects. “The community has selected two unique and vibrant murals that creatively reflect both nature and historic heritage, making this a dynamic and engaging public space for our downtown.” As the renovations to Arts Alley continue, the murals serve as a stunning, visible testament to Rock Island’s commitment to the arts. Quad City Arts is honored to have played a central role in bringing this project to life and looks forward to future collaborations that celebrate and expand public art across the Quad Cities. Visit Arts Alley in downtown Rock Island to see these incredible murals firsthand and experience the power of public art in transforming spaces and communities.
The Moline Public Art Commission, in partnership with Quad City Arts, is excited to announce that Moline resident Jeremiah Ketner, an artist with an impressive portfolio, has been selected to create the next mural on Bass Street. After careful consideration of 13 submissions from local artists, Ketner was chosen for his dynamic and colorful vision, helping to diversify the vibrant local art scene.
Ketner's murals can be found in various locations, including Nordstrom department stores across the country and, most recently, murals in the Chicago area. He holds a BFA from Columbus College of Art and Design and an MFA from Southern Illinois University. His work has been exhibited in solo shows in Chicago and New York, as well as prestigious group exhibitions across the U.S. and internationally. His creative endeavors include painting one-of-a-kind creatures on custom wooden and vinyl toys, which have gained a strong following among collectors. With his unique aesthetic of 'small and round' forms, inspired by his experiences in Japan, Ketner blends traditional art foundations with pop culture influences. Jeremiah Ketner's work is celebrated for its vibrant, lush environments and pensive, dreamlike characters. His signature style, a key contribution to the pop surrealism movement, combines whimsical patterns with deeply imaginative female figures. Ketner’s art has evolved from mischievous sprites into richly colored landscapes, often inspired by Japanese culture, which he regularly incorporates into his designs. Quad City Arts has been contracted to facilitate this mural project, from placing the call for submissions to assisting the artist in completing the work, ensuring a smooth process. Placemaking is central to Quad City Art’s mission, focusing on creating vibrant public spaces that foster connection, community, and cultural enrichment. By leveraging the power of the arts, Quad City Arts aims to transform these spaces into beloved, aesthetically pleasing areas that strengthen community bonds and enhance cultural engagement. The mural will be completed in November 2024, adding a dynamic new element to the artistic landscape of Bass Street Landing and downtown Moline. The Moline Public Art Commission and Quad City Arts share the common goal of showcasing artists, connecting them with the community, and inspiring the region through the arts. To learn more about Jeremiah Ketner’s work, view his website https://www.jeremiahketner.com About the Moline Public Art Commission: http://moline.il.us/1794/Public-Art-Commission About the City of Moline: https://visitquadcities.com/plan-your-trip/our-communities/moline About Quad City Arts: https://www.quadcityarts.com/  Quad City Arts is excited to announce the appointment of Kady Derbyshire as Interim Executive Director. Kady, who has served as the organization’s Operations Director for over a year, will step into this leadership role, bringing her collaborative problem-solving approach to guide Quad City Arts through this important transition period. Kady has worked closely on the organization’s financials and has been highly involved in the planning and execution of the Festival of Trees—pivotal at this time of year. Her familiarity with both the operational and financial aspects of the organization ensures a smooth continuation of Quad City Arts’ efforts. She is committed to maintaining the organization’s momentum through this transition, ensuring that its programs and community impact remain strong and forward-moving. “Kady's deep understanding of our organization's mission and values, combined with her passion for fostering community connections, makes her the ideal person to ensure the continued success of Quad City Arts. Her dedication to both artists and the community makes her the perfect person for the continued success of Quad City Arts,” said Kevin Maynard, Executive Director of Quad City Arts. “Kady has consistently demonstrated her strength as a collaborative leader and problem solver,” added Nate Augustine, Board President. “Her thoughtful approach to tackling challenges, along with her passion for the arts, makes her an excellent choice to lead Quad City Arts through this transition.” With her deep understanding of the organization’s operations and her strong commitment to the community, Kady will ensure that Quad City Arts continues to thrive. In her new role, she will focus on continuing the organization's impact, programs, and events along with Quad City Art’s major fundraiser Festival of Trees, sustaining the organization’s high standard of artistic excellence. The Quad City Arts' Board of Directors have started the search for the next Executive Director. The Job Description can be viewed on the Opportunities Page at QuadCityArts.com. Interested applicants can send their cover letter and resume to [email protected]
 On October 12, one hundred and fifty people gathered for a gallery opening. From October 12 to December 6, 2024, Quad City Arts will showcase the thought-provoking group exhibition titled “It’s Fine. Everything is Fine.” The exhibit features a collection of works that respond to the poignant, often humorous theme of resilience in the face of uncertainty. The public was invited to a FREE opening reception on October 12 from 5-8pm at Quad City Arts’ downtown Rock Island gallery. During the event, attendees had the opportunity to meet the artists and enjoy refreshments as they explored the diverse collection. Group exhibitions like "It’s Fine. Everything is Fine." hold significant value in the art community, offering a platform for diverse voices to come together and create a rich, multifaceted dialogue. By featuring multiple artists in one show, Quad City Arts encourages collaboration, cross-pollination of ideas, and a shared creative experience for both the artists and the audience. These group shows provide artists the chance to connect with one another and the community, fostering a spirit of inclusivity while showcasing a variety of styles, mediums, and perspectives under a unifying theme. In a strong response to Quad City Arts' Call for Entries, 63 artists submitted 141 pieces of art, with 62 pieces from 45 artists ultimately selected for display. The exhibit proudly highlights diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, with at least five artists from underrepresented backgrounds. Notably, 42 of the artists had never previously exhibited at Quad City Arts, illustrating the gallery’s role in expanding artistic engagement in the region. Geographically, this exhibition draws from a wide array of locations. While 36 entries came from the greater Quad Cities area, artists from Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Des Moines, Chicago, Geneseo, Peoria, and other Midwestern towns also contributed. A special acknowledgment goes to the boost in submissions following a Facebook post promoting the exhibit, which led to a surge of entries, particularly from the Cedar Rapids area. Special thanks also go to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art for sharing this opportunity with its’ artists.
By embracing a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, group shows like this create a dynamic exhibition that speaks to different facets of human experience and emotion. “It’s Fine. Everything is Fine.” is not only a celebration of artistic resilience and humor but also a testament to the importance of providing opportunities for both emerging and established artists to share their voices on a larger stage.  October 7, 2024 – Rock Island, IL – Quad City Arts, a cornerstone of the arts and culture community in the Quad Cities region for over 50 years, announces the departure of Executive Director Kevin Maynard, effective October 25, 2024. Maynard has accepted a new role as Executive Director of Opening Nights at Florida State University, where he will begin on November 4, 2024. During his time at the helm of Quad City Arts, Maynard significantly advanced the organization’s mission of enriching the cultural vitality of the Quad Cities through arts programs and public art initiatives. Under his leadership, Quad City Arts expanded its impact by strengthening local partnerships, increasing accessibility to the arts, and championing arts education and advocacy. “Kevin Maynard’s time at Quad City Arts has been transformative. With his vision and energy, he has raised the profile and reach of Quad City Arts to new heights. While we will miss his leadership and skill, we wish him well and are grateful that Quad City Arts has such a bright future because of his efforts,” said Nate Augustine, Quad City Arts Board member. One of Maynard's notable achievements was the launch of the Artist Index, a comprehensive online directory designed to support and promote local artists. He also played a key role in the Arts and Economic Prosperity study, which highlighted the significant economic impact of the arts sector in the Quad Cities. Additionally, Maynard’s commitment to public art resulted in transformative placemaking projects, such as the mural on the side of Analog Arcade Bar in Moline and two murals in Arts Alley in Rock Island by notable local and national artists. Beyond his administrative and strategic contributions, Maynard served as a dynamic ambassador for Quad City Arts on both regional and national stages. His advocacy and presentations at major conferences, including the Midwest Arts Expo and the Association of Performing Arts Professionals, elevated the profile of Quad City Arts and underscored the region’s importance in the national arts landscape. Quad City Arts Board and Maynard will collaborate over the next few weeks to identify an interim director. Maynard will also assist with the transition, ensuring the organization continues its important work without interruption. Reflecting on his time at Quad City Arts, Maynard shared, "It is bittersweet to close this chapter. Quad City Arts has been an extraordinary place to lead, and I am grateful for the support of our dedicated board, staff, and the community. Together, we have accomplished much to strengthen the arts in the Quad Cities. There is a new, exciting chapter ahead for placemaking and art in the Quad Cities! I have been honored to be a part of it and look forward to returning as a tourist to see the lasting impact of our work. I look forward to seeing the team continue to bring this vision to life." For over five decades, Quad City Arts has provided access to the arts through a wide range of programs, including public art installations, educational outreach, the Visiting Artist Series, and Festival of Trees. As the organization embarks on this leadership transition, Quad City Arts remains committed to fostering creativity and connecting the community through the arts.  Quad City Arts is proud to announce the 2024-2025 Visiting Artist Series, bringing a diverse roster of world-class artists to engage with students throughout the Quad Cities area. This 51st season’s lineup includes a wide range of artists from various disciplines, including music, dance, and theater. Through in-school residencies and community outreach activities, these artists will provide educational and inspirational experiences for K-12 and college students. From traditional Hawaiian music and dance to contemporary jazz, hip-hop, and children’s theater, this season offers students the unique opportunity to connect with cultural practitioners, mentors, and role models in a meaningful way. The Visiting Artist Series continues to enrich local schools by supporting their curriculum, student engagement, and wider community outreach efforts. A COMMUNITY- DRIVEN SELECTION PROCESS The season, which runs from Sept. 30 through May 9, 2025, will bring cultural practitioners, mentors, and role models to Quad City area schools for engagements with K-12 and college students. This season’s artists were chosen for the Visiting Artist Series roster with input from area school administrators and teachers, alongside an advisory committee review. To ensure that the artists align with the educational goals of the schools, Quad City Arts staff conducted a "listening tour" with eight local districts. During these conversations, they gathered feedback on how artist engagements could best support the curriculum, address student needs, and benefit the schools' wider communities. Each residency in the 2024-2025 Visiting Artist Series is a direct result of these thoughtful discussions. RETURNING ARTISTS & NEW EXPERIENCES Among the returning favorites is the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, which will be in residence in November. Following their highly successful visit last fall, the orchestra will visit five schools, presenting on professional performing, touring, and technical skills. Teachers who hosted the band in November 2023 appreciated the musicians’ reinforcement of key skills and their encouragement to students to persevere in their music practice. Another highlight is Twin Flames, a Northern Canadian duo visiting in March 2025. Their residency will include music influenced by their cultural background, as well as presentations on their children's book Maakusie Loves Music. This residency, developed in collaboration with Arts Basics in Davenport, aims to provide all kindergarten students in the Davenport Community School District with a shared arts experience. THE FULL ROSTER OF ARTISTS This season includes a wide variety of professional performing artists, each providing educational activities that complement local school curriculums. Students will learn about the native culture of Hawaii through a performance with soaring vocals, breathtaking island harmonies, and a folk vibe, as the 51st season of Quad City Arts Visiting Artist Series residencies begins Sept. 30 with a weeklong visit from Hawaiian dance and music ensemble Kulāiwi. Kulāiwi brings together three of Hawai‘i’s most talented and revered musicians — Lehua Kalima, Shawn Pimental, and Kawika Kahiapo — alongside hula dancer Pono Fernandez. With a blend of soaring vocals, rich island harmonies, and folk-inspired guitar, they create a deeply engaging atmosphere rooted in the heart of Hawaiian culture. Their debut collaboration earned them 4 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, including the prestigious Group of the Year. Known for their captivating performances, Kulāiwi effortlessly weaves traditional Hawaiian storytelling through their music, which is as warm and welcoming as the islands themselves. The name "Kulāiwi" translates to "land of my ancestors," and this connection to ancestry is central to their performances. While they sing the stories of Hawai‘i, their music also resonates with Indigenous communities worldwide, celebrating both cultural diversity and unity.  THE FULL LIST OF ARTISTS IS AS FOLLOWS:
For more information on this residency program, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas. PUBLIC PERFORMANCES While not every artist will host a public performance as part of their residency, the "Quad City Arts Presents" series offers the community an opportunity to experience the artists who are bringing impactful arts experiences to local schools. Kulaiwi’s public performance will kick off the “Quad City Arts Presents” series on Thursday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m. at the Sound Conservatory in Moline. This season, patrons can select a ticket price ranging from $10 to $60, allowing more flexibility for attendees while supporting the production costs of each performance. Kulāiwi’s performances seek to inspire audiences to connect with their heritage, creating an unforgettable experience that honors the past while looking toward the future. Six artists will provide public performances in this roster, to learn more visit: quadcityarts.com/performances
Quad City Arts: Continuing a Legacy of Artistic Engagement Since 1974, the Visiting Artists Series has engaged Quad City residents of all ages in quality arts experiences with professional performing artists. Artists of various disciplines present demonstrations, workshops, and masterclasses at pre-K sites, elementary, intermediate, and high schools as well as college campuses and community organizations. For more information about the Visiting Artists Series residency program, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas. Contact: Margot Day, performing arts director at Quad City Arts, [email protected] or 309-793-1213, ext. 106.  Accessible Tiered Ticketing Available for All Public Performances
Quad City Arts is excited to present the upcoming Quad City Arts Presents performance series, a carefully curated lineup of world-class artists representing a broad spectrum of music, dance, and cultural expression. This series is designed not only to showcase extraordinary talent but also to engage, inspire, and bring a diverse range of performances to the heart of the Quad Cities. From the soaring harmonies of Hawaiian music to the electrifying energy of contemporary dance and the soulful sounds of Mexican folk-rock, this series offers something for everyone! Understanding the vital role that accessibility plays in fostering a strong and inclusive arts community, Quad City Arts is committed to making these performances available to as many people as possible through tiered ticket pricing. This subsidized ticketing approach ensures that all members of the community, regardless of financial situation, can experience these live performances. By offering tickets at different price points, Quad City Arts is breaking down the financial barriers that too often limit access to the arts. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of live performance, and tiered pricing helps make that vision a reality. In addition to these electrifying performances, you’ll have the opportunity to hear the artists share their experiences of working with students in schools, discuss their backgrounds, techniques, and collaborations, and give insight into the inspirations behind their art. It’s an in-depth look at the creative minds bringing this extraordinary series to life. This season, patrons can select a ticket price ranging from $10 to $60, allowing those who need it a lower price point and options for those who can support all costs associated with the performance they will see. Quad City Arts Presents series is part of the larger Visiting Artist Series, a nationally recognized residency program that brings world-class artists from diverse artistic and cultural backgrounds directly into local schools. Through outreach performances, more than 29,000 K-12 students annually have the opportunity to experience live performances that might otherwise be out of reach. Your attendance at this community-focused series benefits arts education in our community. Since 1974, the Visiting Artist Series has been committed to enriching the lives of young students in the Quad Cities by providing access to GRAMMY Award-winning artists and globally renowned performers. All proceeds from the Quad City Arts Presents series will benefit the Visiting Artist Series, ensuring the continuation of this important educational program. This season brings 12 artist ensembles to the region, expanding the horizons of students and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Public Performance Schedule:
About the Performances: Kulāiwi kicks off the series on October 3, 2024, with a rich and soulful celebration of Hawaiian culture through traditional music and dance. The ensemble brings together some of Hawai‘i’s most talented musicians and hula performers, sharing stories of their island home and Indigenous heritage. Chicago Dance Crash will grace the stage on January 16, 2025, at the Galvin Fine Arts Center with their innovative fusion of ballet, modern, jazz, and hip hop. This dynamic performance will feature new works curated by Artistic Director KC Bevis, blending street dance and acrobatics into an unforgettable night of movement and audience interaction. On February 20, 2025, the Irish quintet Goitse will dazzle audiences with their distinctive blend of traditional folk and original compositions. Known for their energetic performances and modern take on Irish music, Goitse is sure to captivate the Quad Cities with their unique sound. Darrah Carr Dance will follow on March 13, 2025, offering a contemporary twist on Irish step dance. The company’s ModERIN style seamlessly combines traditional Irish step with the fluidity of modern dance, creating performances that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. Closing out the series on May 8, 2025, Jarabe Mexicano will perform at Mercado on Fifth. Their signature "Bordeño Soul" sound blends Mexican Folk with Rock & Roll, Norteño, Cumbia, and more. With bilingual vocals and vibrant storytelling, this concert will be an intimate celebration of border culture, family, and community. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.quadcityarts.com/performances or call 309-793-1213. 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.
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  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!
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. Below are each city's sculptures for the 2024-2025 season along with their artists' statements. Bettendorf, Iowa
Clinton, Iowa
Davenport, Iowa
Dewitt, Iowa
Moline, ILlinois
Rock Island, ILlinois
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