In The Spotlight: Kristall Laursen

Linnansaari National Park in Finland

It’s never too late for a warm introduction! After joining us in July, we’re thrilled to welcome Kristall Laursen as Quad City Arts’ Development Director. Hailing from Wheatland, IA, after stints in Chicago, Colorado, Alabama, and beyond, Kristall is excited to be back near family and contributing to our vibrant arts community.

With a passion for making the Midwest a hub of creativity, Kristall dreams of transforming the Quad Cities into a place where artists thrive. She’s driven by the vision of a community filled with culture, beauty, and fresh ideas—not just influenced by the coasts, but a leader in its own right.

An adventurer at heart, Kristall has a deep love for the arts, both locally and globally. From the Figge Art Museum in Davenport to the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, she finds inspiration in creativity, human connection, and even the absurdities of life. A self-proclaimed “professional hobbyist,” she’s tried everything from axe throwing to harp playing!

We’re so excited to have Kristall on board, and we can’t wait to see the impact she’ll make as she helps Quad City Arts grow and thrive. If you spot her at one of our events, say hello—especially if you have a favorite arts experience to recommend! 

Are you a Quad Cities native? What brought you to the Quad Cities?
I grew up in Wheatland, IA so the Quad Cities was the "big city" growing up. After getting my Master's in Museum Studies through Western Illinois University I moved to Chicago (then Colorado, then Alabama, then briefly in many other places) before coming back recently to be closer to my family.
 
What is your biggest achievement/goal/moment of success to date – personal or professional?
This question reminds me to reflect on this more often. I'm usually just focused on the next goal!

How did you first learn about Quad City Arts? 
I couldn't possibly remember! It's been a part of the Quad Cities for so long... 
 
What are you most excited for in your role at Quad City Arts? 
I want the Quad Cities to be a place that artists want to BE. Artists bring culture, beauty, interesting ideas, and opportunities to our community. The Midwest has so much to offer, but it has a bad reputation as not being a source of unique ideas. We're known as a place influenced by the coasts. What if our community was filled with creative people driving new, interesting ideas?! That's a place I want to be and I am excited to meet others with a similar vision.
 
What is your favorite arts experience in the Quad Cities? 
I've spent a lot of time at the Figge, so it definitely holds a special place. Having newly returned to the area, I'm looking forward to exploring and finding new art experiences! (If you're reading this and have an idea - invite me out!)

What is your favorite arts experience outside of the Quad Cities?
Zagreb, Croatia is home to the Museum of Broken Relationships. It is a blast... Taking the most human of experiences, our relationships, and showcasing items that represent stories of anticipation, lust, love, and heartbreak. I also follow many artists - I'm drawn to whimsical and humorous art that points out the absurdities of being a human in our world.

Who is your favorite artist? (This can be any artist – visual, performing, etc.)
I couldn't possibly choose. I find new artists I love every day!

What is one thing that might surprise people about you? 
I could be considered a professional hobbyist... I've explored hobbies like home-brewing beer, axe throwing, playing musical instruments (guitar, ukulele, harp, harmonica), wood carving, and many more. 
 
What are you currently watching on Netflix or TV?
90 Day Fiancé

Star Wars or Star Trek? 
Black Mirror
 
Where is the best pizza in the Quad Cities (or where you are from)? 
Pequod's Pizza in Chicago is my personal fav.

What is your favorite book? 
Anything by Bill Bryson or Kurt Vonnegut.

Where is your go-to place for inspiration? 
Nature - most specifically water and preferably the ocean, but when a flight isn't an option the mighty Mississippi will do.
 
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? 
Artist and/or entrepreneur. I love to create!
 
If you could have a drink with any artist living or dead who would it be?
Dead: Kurt Vonnegut
Living: Kirsha Kaechele
​

Kristall and her partner, Mike White, enjoying Festival of Trees 2024