Celebrate The Season: Gifts That Inspire

How to Support Artists During the Holiday Season: 5 Quick Ideas
The holiday season is a magical time of year—a season of giving, celebration, and togetherness. For artists, it’s also a critical time when their creativity becomes an opportunity to make meaningful connections and sustain their livelihood. At Quad City Arts, our mission is to enrich the quality of life in the Quad Cities through the arts. By supporting artists this holiday season, you’re contributing to a vibrant, thriving arts community.

Here’s how you can make a difference:

1. Shop Small, Shop Local
When you buy art directly from an artist, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re ensuring they’re compensated for their craft. Artists get paid when you make a purchase in our Gallery Store!

Visit Us! Our store features work from talented local artists within a 250-mile radius. Not only do your purchases directly support these artists, but a portion of the proceeds also helps fund arts programming in the community. It’s a gift that truly gives back. Stop by the Quad City Arts Gallery Store, located at 1715 2nd Avenue, Rock Island, IL. ​

At Quad City Arts, we believe in fostering opportunities for artists to share their talents. By shopping small with us—you help keep these opportunities alive while celebrating the creativity that makes our region so special. Shop from home, and pick up in-store! www.shopquadcityarts.com

2. Commission a Custom Piece
Few gifts are as personal and thoughtful as a custom artwork created just for your loved one. Many artists accept commissions during the holiday season, offering opportunities to design something truly one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s a portrait, a custom sculpture, or a piece inspired by a cherished memory, this gift will be unforgettable. Find the perfect artist on our Artist Index, and get connected!

Looking for a unique way to give back with your business? Encourage your employer to commission a piece of public art! Businesses can celebrate the holidays by making a lasting impact through public art installations that inspire and beautify the community.

Custom art embodies the values at the heart of Quad City Arts—connecting people to creativity and making art accessible to all.

3. Attend Shows, Performances, or Exhibitions
Artists often present their work through  gallery shows , live performances, and art fairs. Attending these events is a meaningful way to show your support. Bring friends and family, make a day of it, and if something catches your eye, consider making a purchase. Even if you don’t buy, your presence and encouragement make a difference. View our calendar of events to find an evening filled with inspiration!

Through Quad City Arts Presents, we create spaces for artists to share their work with our community. These events highlight the incredible talents of visiting artists and offer unique opportunities to connect. Your support helps us continue this mission and ensures that artists can thrive.

4. Engage on Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for artists to share their work and connect with fans, but they need your help to grow their reach. Simple actions like liking, commenting, and sharing their posts can significantly boost their visibility. If you love an artist’s work, take a moment to tell others why. 

Supporting artists online mirrors the mission of Quad City Arts to inspire creativity in all its forms. By amplifying their voices, you’re helping us bring art to every corner of our community. Help us build a creative community and follow us on Facebook, and Instagram.

5. Give the Gift of Experience
Art isn’t just something to be admired—it’s something to be experienced! Gift your loved ones tickets to a local concert, art class, or gallery tour.

Looking for inspiration? Check out local partners like The Figge Art Museum and the Family Museum, both of which offer wonderful opportunities for creative learning and engagement or join the many "Paint Nights" at local establishments. Whether it’s a class, workshop, or family outing, these experiences inspire connection and creativity.

At Quad City Arts, we aim to create connections between audiences and the arts. When you give the gift of an artistic experience, you’re fostering moments of inspiration, discovery, and joy—values we hold dear.

Why Supporting Artists Matters
Artists enrich our lives in countless ways—through beauty, storytelling, and perspectives that help us see the world differently. At Quad City Arts, we are proud to champion artists and bring their work to our community. By supporting them this holiday season, you’re ensuring they can continue to create and inspire for years to come.

Stop by the Quad City Arts Gallery Store in downtown Rock Island, to shop local and give a gift that supports both artists and community arts programming!