BREAKING NEWS: The inspiring unveiling of a new mural on an empty building in downtown Rock Island Thursday not only adds vibrant new color, beauty and life to a little-noticed alleyway, it represents the dreams and sorrows of a talented teenager, the dreams and sorrows of an entire race, and the hopes and dreams for a further revitalization of a city’s center. Dozens of local leaders, business people, artists and residents gathered along 20th Street downtown to celebrate the gorgeous mural inspired by a Rock Island High School student’s award-winning artwork, which also served as the official... Read More

The unveiling of a new mural in Downtown Rock Island, inspired by a Rock Island High School student’s award-winning artwork, will serve as the official kickoff to this year’s Alternating Currents festival Aug. 19-22 in the Quad-Cities. What: Ceremony unveiling the mural by young artist Riley Jones, a Rocky junior. When: 3:45-4:45 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 19  Where: Alleyway at 313 20th St., Rock Island Hosted by: Quad Cities Chamber & Quad City Arts as part of Alternating Currents  Created by 16-year-old Riley Jones in collaboration with professional muralists Dana Harrison (Limone)... Read More