A Brief Update

I wanted to share a brief update on how The Gathering Gallery is growing.

Over the past few months, we’ve been focused on building a strong foundation for a welcoming, art-infused space where local artists are supported, promoted, and where community members can connect and create together. Even without a permanent location yet, we’ve continued hosting regular gatherings that bring people together through creativity, conversation, and mutual support—and the response has been steady and encouraging.

As this work becomes more visible, we’re also seeing growing community support. More artists, participants, and local partners are reaching out to learn about The Gathering Gallery, attend gatherings, and explore ways to be involved. This early engagement is helping shape our direction and reinforces the need for an accessible, artist-centered gathering space in our community.

We’re expanding our offerings through skill-building opportunities, including an upcoming grant writing workshop designed to help artists, organizers, and community members turn ideas into funded projects. This reflects our commitment to supporting artists not just creatively, but practically and professionally—by building confidence, knowledge, and long-term capacity.

At the same time, we’ve recruited a small group of founding artists and community members who will help shape The Gathering Gallery’s future. These founding members will play an active role in refining our vision, informing programming, and laying the groundwork for a cooperative gallery and gathering space rooted in real community needs.

Behind the scenes, we’re putting essential systems in place to support sustainable growth. We’re operating under fiscal sponsorship with Quad Cities Community Foundation, working with an engaged board, and developing a website to make it easier for people to stay connected. 

This phase may not be flashy or quick,  but it’s essential. Every step we take now helps ensure that when The Gathering Gallery secures a physical space, it will be thoughtful, accessible, and deeply grounded in the people it serves.  

Thank you for your interest in this work. Your support—whether through sharing, encouragement, or future giving—helps move this vision forward. I hope you don’t mind that we keep you up to date as we continue to make progress.