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
The 2024 Quad City Arts Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program is underway, providing over thirty area youth ages 15-21 with a five-week paid summer apprenticeship. Since 2000, Metro Arts apprentices have been creating art that positively impacts our community, with both mural and film projects this year. This year’s program started on June 10 and will be completed on July 11, ending with a final showcase held at the Rock Island Public Library Watts-Midtown Branch Community Room from 6:00-7:00PM on Thursday, July 11th. The evening will include screenings of the films, as well as presentations from the mural teams. This event is free and open to all. Both Davenport and Rock Island will be getting new murals. In Rock Island, the group will be creating a mural on the east side of Quality Control Restoration, the former Goodyear Building, centering on themes of agricultural labor and the armed services, while in Davenport, the south side of the Putnam Museum’s rotunda will be getting a mural focused on the link between pollinators and the world at large. The apprentices develop and present multiple designs to their clients, and then take client feedback to create these stunning, large-scale pieces. Kelly Lao, the Putnam’s Vice President of Museum Experiences and Interim CEO, says, “The Metro Arts program is such a wonderful opportunity both for the students and for [the] area businesses, non-profits, and community spaces they adorn with their art. We are very excited to be the next site for a mural showcasing the incredible talent of local artists and students.” Both mural groups are helmed by local artist Sarah Robb. Raised in Davenport, IA, Robb received her BFA in Illustration with a minor in Graphic Design from Laguna College of Art & Design in Laguna Beach, CA. Since returning to the QCA in 2006, she has been the Lead Artist for Mural Design with the QC Arts Metro Arts Summer Youth Program. 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. The Film program, in conjunction with Augustana College, has begun shooting two short films, mainly on the college’s campus. Led by Stacy Barton, Associate Professor and Film Program Director at Augustana College, the group will learn the filmmaking process from writing to post-production, getting hands-on experience in all aspects of filmmaking. In her role as associate professor and film program director at Augustana College, Barton's spent the last two years designing new facilities and crafting a film production degree that's just now seeing its first students win awards at film festivals. Past experiences with youth filmmaking include mentoring at Street Level Youth Media in Chicago, Strive Media Institute in Milwaukee, and running filmmaking summer camps at John Wood Community College and the University of Colorado Denver. These projects were made possible through support from Augustana College, City of Rock Island, Davenport Noon Optimists, Modern Woodmen of America, the Putnam Museum and Science Center, Quality Control Restoration, Iowa Arts Council, and the Illinois Arts Council Agency. About the Metro Arts ProgramSince the summer of 2000, Metro Arts has provided area youth 15-21 years old with paid summer apprenticeships in various arts disciplines. For five weeks, area youth work together in groups to complete projects that enhance the community through the arts. Participants learn the artistic techniques and applications of their genre while developing personally and professionally. This program allows young adults to build career and artistic skills, as they work under the supervision and mentorship of professional artists. Their mentors are accomplished, local artists who are passionate about teaching and encouraging creativity. If you would like to interview the Lead Artists or the Apprentices please contact Ben Gougeon ([email protected] or 309.793.1213x100) for scheduling. The arts make a differenceSummer programs like the Metro Arts Apprenticeship Program helps improve academic performance, not just through creativity, but it improves learning in areas like math and science as well as the literary field. Art education fosters collaboration, group learning, and most importantly creative problem-solving. For five weeks, area youth work together in groups to complete art projects under the supervision and mentorship of professional artists. Participants learn their particular genre's artistic techniques and applications while developing personally and professionally. Murals and street paintings throughout the Quad Cities are the lasting legacy of programs past.
Placemaking has become a pillar at Quad City Arts over the past few years, and we are thankful that we have a collection of cities that believe in the power of the arts in their placemaking efforts. Placemaking is central to the mission at Quad City Arts, reflecting our commitment to harnessing the transformative power of the arts. We recognize the essential role that placemaking plays in crafting vibrant public spaces that foster connection, community, and cultural enrichment. While placemaking encompasses various elements beyond art, our focus at Quad City Arts is on leveraging artistic endeavors to achieve these goals. By working collaboratively, we aim to create beloved spaces that not only elevate the aesthetic of our cities but also strengthen the bonds among the community. The integration of the arts in placemaking aligns perfectly with our mission, demonstrating the profound impact that art can have in shaping dynamic and engaging community environments. Quad City Arts has been a vocal advocate for the arts and our vibrant artists' community for many years, a commitment we continue to uphold. Our advocacy extends to promoting public art in our community, establishing sustainable funding models for the arts, and making public art projects more accessible. We support and facilitate these projects, making them a reality for our community. How does Quad City Arts facilitate a project? This varies from project to project. In all projects we facilitate, we try to make it as easy as possible for the client to bring the project to fruition. We provide information, but we do not select the artist or the artwork; that is for the client and their community to decide. A project can be divided into four phases: planning, artist selection, project, and wrap-up. The Planning Phase:
The Project Phase
Quad City Arts is championing the integration of art into the fabric of our communities through impactful placemaking, we are dedicated to realizing the visions of our clients and enriching the cultural landscape of our community. By facilitating every phase of public art projects—from the initial planning and artist selection to the logistical execution and celebratory unveiling—we ensure that each project not only meets but exceeds community expectations. Our approach not only supports the creation of spaces that resonate with public affinity but also reinforces the indispensable role of art in fostering vibrant, connected communities. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate, create, and celebrate the transformative power of public art together with our community partners and local artists. 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). Due to the large number of sculptures rotating, the process began in May and will continue through June 25, with most installations occurring between June 6-12th. If the press would like to watch an installation and interview a sculptor, please contact Dawn Wohlford-Metallo at 309-793-1213 X108. 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. For a complete list of sculptures and their installation locations, please visit our website. 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. Complete list of sculptures with installation location: Rock Island: (Rock Island Public Art Commission) 1. “Caution Pump” by Matt Moyer (Columbia, MO). Five Points. 18th Ave. and 17th Street 2. “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” by Anna Modeland (Somers, IA). Southwest Branch Library: 9010 Ridgewood Rd. 3. “Bear” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI). Longview Park. 1300 17th Street 4. “Wayward Moose” by Steve Feren (Fitchburg, WI). Downtown Public Library, 401 19th St. Moline: (Moline Public Art Commission) 1. “Action Reaction” by Chris Wubbena (Jackson, MO), Kone Building, 1 Montgomery Drive 2. “Air Garden” by Steven Buduo (St. Louis, MO) 14th St. and 5th Ave. 3. “Portal to Metamorphosis II” by Glory Hartsfield (Stella, MO) 1605 5th Ave. 4. “Whistlepig” by Steve Feren (Fitchburg, WI) 1801 5th Ave. 5. “Helicopter Seeds” by Brian Ferriby (Empire, MI). Heritage Place Plaza 6. “Florette II” by Sam Spiczka (Apex, N.C.) 504 17th St. Bettendorf (City of Bettendorf, Geifman Properties): 1. “Balancing Act” by John Adduci (Chicago, IL). Veteran’s Memorial Park entrance 2. “Writing Figure” by V. Skip Willits (Camanche, IA) Faye’s Field. 2850 Learning Campus Dr. 3. “Colossus” by Andrew Arvanetes (Kankakee, IL) Waterfront Convention Center 4. “Rotating Through the Universe” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI). Build to Suit (River’s Edge Business Park) 1805 State St. 5. “Windblown” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA). Community Center lawn. 2204 Grant Street 6. “The Catch” by Anna Modeland (Somers, IA). Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W. (leased for the 2nd year) 7. “Twist” by Michael Young (Chicago). Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W. (leased for the second year, in new location) 8. “Bench, Please” by Ben Pierce (Cape Girardeau, MO) Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W. Davenport: (The Downtown Davenport Partnership) 1. “Oxbow” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA). Parking Ramp on W. 2nd Street. 2. “The Feather” by Kirk Seese (Lutherville, MD). Current Hotel, entrance. 2nd & Main. 3. “Collaborative Communication” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI). 126 Main St., Common Cord Courtyard 4. “We're Here” by Chris Wubbena (Jackson, MO), Figge Art Museum Plaza, 225 W. Second St. 5. “Fowl Play” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA), RiverCenter, east entrance, 2nd St. Clinton (City of Clinton)
DeWitt Community Library: (DeWitt Fine Arts Foundation)
Join us in celebrating the transformative power of art in the Quad Cities and experience how public art continues to enrich our community. Quad City Arts to Lead 'Talking Art' Podcast in New Partnership with WVIK, Quad Cities NPR5/28/2024
Quad City Arts is honored to announce its stewardship of the "Talking Art" podcast, in partnership with WVIK, Quad Cities NPR. Building upon the remarkable legacy of its founders, Dr. Carolyn Martin and the late Bruce Carter, whose insightful conversations have enriched our understanding of the arts for over two decades. This collaboration aims to continue developing the community's cultural landscape by engaging listeners with insightful discussions and stories that impact our local art scene. Kevin Maynard, Executive Director of Quad City Arts, stated, "It is an honor to continue the legacy initiated by Bruce Carter and Dr. Carolyn Martin. Their passion for arts and culture has set a high standard we are eager to uphold. We believe this partnership with WVIK will enable us to highlight even more stories from the Quad Cities and beyond." Listeners can look forward to a series enriched with deeper explorations into the artistic process, impactful community arts initiatives, and personal journeys of both emerging and established artists. Episodes will be released every other Thursday, with part of the first five minutes being broadcast at 8:01 AM on WVIK Classical (98.3 FM) and 2:01 PM on WVIK News (90.3 FM). The entire interview will then be made available in podcast form. “Talking Art” will have various Quad City Arts team members’ host. "Talking about local art and artists on our airwaves has been integral to WVIK's mission as a local, public radio station ever since we were founded back in 1980. This new collaboration with the engaging and creative team at Quad City Arts is already proving to be an extraordinarily fruitful partnership. I can't wait to hear the conversations they have lined up," says Jared Johnson, General Manager of WVIK, Quad Cities NPR. The "Talking Art" podcast is accessible on WVIK's website and popular podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For additional details about the podcast and upcoming episodes, please visit Quad City Arts or WVIK. Listen in on the first episode featuring Marc Zyla! In this episode of "Talking Art," Kevin Maynard from Quad City Arts sits down with Marc Zyla, principal horn of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra (QCSO), to discuss the upcoming "Up Close" event. Marc shares his journey to becoming a musician and artist, from his early days to his time in the QCSO. Listeners will gain insight into the creative process behind musical performances, the intersection of different art forms, and the passion and dedication required to succeed as an artist in the modern world. Join Kevin and Marc for a captivating conversation that delves deep into the heart of music and artistry. Read more on the WVIK website: www.wvik.org/podcast/talking-art Quad City Arts hosted Randy Cohen, VP of Research at Americans for the Arts, on May 16. Cohen was in town to share the findings of the Arts and Economic Prosperity 6 study released in October (AEP6 Results Release Blog). Quad City Arts worked with Cohen and his team in 2022 to collect data in our region from nonprofit arts and culture organizations to ensure the Quad Cities were represented in the national study and to learn more about the impact locally. Some of the highlights Cohen covered included:
Randy Cohen shared this and more throughout the Quad Cities meeting with the public at an event at the Figge Art Museum in partnership with Visit Quad Cities, at a lunch event with local legislatures, to the media, as well as a keynote at the Quad City Arts’ Celebration of the Arts. Looking for Reasons to Support the Arts in 2024? Or looking for words to express the impact of the arts locally? Look no further! Download the 10 Reasons to Support the Arts in Quad Cities in 2024. In addition to the Arts and Economic Prosperity Study, Quad City Arts also invested in a location-based economic calculator. This calculator will help determine your organizations economic impact based on the data collected in the Quad Cities: Calculate your impact! To dive deeper into the AEP6 findings: In addition to these findings, Executive Director, Kevin Maynard, shared the impact of Quad City Arts from 2023, which can be found in our Annual Report. Maynard also shared a look ahead to 2024 as Quad City Arts launches two pilot programs! - The Quad Cities Performing Arts Mentorship program: Designed to work with performers in our community to help them create an educational component. We are often asked why we don’t hire locals for our Visiting Artist Series, and one big reason is that local performers don’t have a school show. This pilot program will work with a handful of local talent to help them highlight the educational components already there in their work. This will help artists learn how to support their touring endeavors outside of the QC by supplementing it with an educational engagement add-on. This pilot program is a proof of concept to develop something bigger in future years. - Project L.A.B.: A partnership with the Creative Empowerment Initiative, Project LAB. (Learning the Art of Business). This will create an opportunity for artists to learn the business of the arts to take them to the next level. Allowing artists to increase their knowledge and skills in areas including financial literacy, legal obligations, marketing, and more. In addition to the business component, it also will help artists network with one another and connect them deeper with our programs. Thank you to everyone who joined us through the day, we can't wait to host more events that help our community gain knowledge of the economic impact of the arts and help our community of artists! Quad City Arts is honored to announce Atlanta Dawn, CJ Parker, Daniel Sheridan, and Phil Vernon as winners of the Lloyd Schoeneman Community Impact Awards, to be recognized at the organization’s upcoming Celebration of the Arts. Since 2005, the awards have been given in honor of Lloyd Schoeneman (1951-2001), who began his career with Quad City Arts Council in 1978 and worked tirelessly for the arts and artists in our community. The awards honor outstanding artists, arts educators, and arts supporters, and the winners were selected from nominations from the community.
The Lloyd Schoeneman Community Impact Awards recognize excellence in the Quad Cities arts community. The award features an enclosed rubber band ball; a symbol of Schoeneman’s playful and creative spirit, and his penchant for making rubber band balls and shooting them over the cubicle walls. Creating something colorful, fun, and unique from everyday objects was second nature to him, and the award acknowledges the creative spirit of all its winners.
This year’s Lloyd Award winners will be recognized at Quad City Arts’ Celebration of the Arts at The Bend Event Center. The evening will also feature remarks from Quad City Arts’ Executive Director Kevin Maynard, performances by Visiting Artist Daniel Pak and Grammy-nominated pianist Josh Rawlings, and a keynote address by Americans for the Arts’ Vice President of Research, Randy Cohen. Since 1991, Randy has propelled national arts advocacy, initiating studies like Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 and collaborating on the National Arts Policy Roundtable with Robert Redford. Experience his profound insights and support our vibrant community! At Celebration of the ARTS dive into a night of inspiring talks, networking, and a special look at the AEP6 study in the Quad Cities, which shows the arts generated over $29 million in economic activity in a single year. 🌟 Keynote speaker Randy Cohen, VP of Research from Americans for the Arts 🎶 Entertainment from award-winning artists Daniel Pak and Grammy-Nominated Pianist Josh Rawlings 🍸 Tickets include complimentary hors d’oevres and cocktails **All proceeds support the Quad City Arts’ Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program!** Tickets can be purchased at the Quad City Arts website: https://bit.ly/3Uh184w Teachers and principals of all Quad City Area schools are invited to schedule an arts engagement for their students from a professional performing artist during the upcoming school year through Quad City Arts’ Visiting Artist Series. Students will have access to professional performing artists who celebrate the diversity of the students and communities we serve as well as workshops and masterclasses to learn more about careers in the arts. The series will provide engagement visits featuring music from Hawaii, Brazil, Belgium, India, Ireland, Canada, Japan, and Mexico, plus a children's puppet play, and return visits from a Chicago-based hip-hop/contemporary dance company and a Mexican folk/rock quintet. School staff from public and private schools can schedule residency engagements for this fall and next spring by visiting www.quadcityarts.com/vas-scheduling. The 2024-2025 season is filled with music, dance, and theater across genres and from around the world. The first three artists of the season represent Native Hawaiian culture, music, and dance, Afro-Brazilian music, and a blend of 1780s Belgian music with modern jazz. Chicago Dance Crash returns for a week-long residency in mid-January 2025 to serve as ambassadors of street dance for area students. Known for its diverse repertoire, Crash’s performances feature choreography and freestyles by some of the nation’s top dance practitioners and tours annually across the U.S. Visiting in late January 2025, “Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch” is a puppet play based on the book by Eileen Spinelli, illustrated by Paul Yalowitz and adapted and directed by Chris McGregor. This performance tells the story of when Mr. Hatch’s world is turned upside down and he begins to make friends and enjoy all the fun parts of life that he once ignored. “Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch” a heartwarming puppet play for K-7th grade students that examines the effect that kindness can have on a dreary existence. The popular and multi-award-winning quintet Goitse will be in residence mid-March 2025. The band was forged in the white-hot creative crucible of Limerick’s Irish World Academy. Named Live Ireland’s “Traditional Group of the Year”, Chicago Irish American News’ “Group of the Year”, as well as winning the prestigious “Freiburger International Leiter 2016” award in Germany, Goitse have become a leader of the new generation of traditional Irish ensembles. Since 1973, San Jose Taiko has captivated global audiences and critics alike with the powerful sounds of the taiko.Inspired by traditional Japanese drumming, company performers express the beauty of the human spirit through the voice of the taiko, creating a vibrant, contemporary art form as they strive to connect people through cultural understanding, creative expression, and rhythmic heartbeat. The company visits Quad City area schools in March 2025. Residency host sites can sign up for visits ranging from all-school performances to hands-on workshops or performance opportunities with artists in residence hosted by Quad City Arts. The full roster of artists in residence is as follows:
As a keystone program of Quad City Arts, the Visiting Artist Series, which started in 1974 to present multi-disciplinary performing arts residencies in schools and community sites, has brought in 490 residencies, more than 847 artists, over 10,570 school visits, more than 457 concerts, and nearly 2.76 million reached. The series serves students and community members in Clinton, Scott, and Muscatine Counties in Iowa, and Henry, Rock Island, and Mercer Counties in Illinois. 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 master classes 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.
About Quad City Arts Quad City Arts is a nonprofit local arts agency dedicated to enriching the quality of life in the Quad City region through the arts. Quad City Arts receives significant support for the Visiting Artist Series from Scott County Regional Authority, Regional Development Authority, Bechtel Charitable Trust, National Endowment of the Arts, Iowa Arts Council, Illinois Arts Council Agency, Quad Cities Cultural Trust, The Amy Helpenstell Foundation Fund, the John J. Quail Fund and the Marsha and Don Pedersen Endowment at the Quad Cities Community Foundation, Rock Island Community Foundation, Geneseo Rotary Club, Rauch Family Foundation I, Kiwanis Club of Davenport, and Quad City Arts donors. Contact: Margot Day, performing arts director at Quad City Arts, [email protected] or 309-793-1213, ext. 106. |
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