MUSCATINE, IOWA (September 15, 2026) — More than fifteen cultural organizations have united as the Muscatine Cultural Alliance. Dedicated to the performing and visual arts, placemaking, and our local history, the organizations will join together to hold the “Cultural Alliance Celebration: Volunteer Recognition and Fundraiser” on Thursday, October 15. The celebration will take place at the National Pearl Button Museum 5-7:30PM. Doors open at 4:30PM.

MOLINE, ILLINOIS (August 27, 2026) — Western Illinois University (WIU) Museum Studies graduate Kelly Lao ('11) has been named the next director of the Muscatine Art Center in Muscatine, Iowa, following a three-month national search.

Lao began her new role on August 3. She succeeds former Muscatine Art Center Director Melanie Alexander, who resigned in April.

The Art Sisters: Pictured from left are Mary Schuytema, Janis Mars Wunderlich Minor, Rae Standard, Linda Sickmon, Chris Dokolasa, and Lori Reed

MONMOUTH, ILLINOIS (August 18, 2026) — Six artists who share a bond of friendship and creativity — including a Monmouth College art professor — will be featured in the college's first exhibition of the 2026-27 academic year.

ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (August 11, 2026) — Quad City Arts’ Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Gougeon as the organization’s next Executive Director, effective August 10, 2026.