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Mahler’s influence on James Dixon

The following was compiled by Cecil Campbell, exhibition and engagement student lead for the Main Library Gallery, and features select exhibition text by Sarah Suhadolnik and Katie Buehner. During his considerable tenure as conductor of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra, James Dixon developed a reputation for programming modern compositions, which occasionally ruffled the feathers of his more traditional-minded audienceContinue reading “Mahler’s influence on James Dixon”

James Dixon’s lasting impact on the Quad City Symphony Orchestra 

The following was compiled by Cecil Campbell, exhibition and engagement student lead for the Main Library Gallery, and features select exhibition text by Sarah Suhadolnik and Katie Buehner. In 1916, the Tri-Cities area—Rock Island, Illinois; Moline, Illinois; and Davenport, Iowa—was the smallest community in the country to support a full symphony orchestra. Now the Quad City Symphony Orchestra (QCSO), itContinue reading “James Dixon’s lasting impact on the Quad City Symphony Orchestra “

Students investigate: eye-catching color in early children’s books

This series features the work and research of UI students. The following was written by Cecil Campbell, exhibition and engagement student lead for the Main Library Gallery.  There are a number of hallmarks that we look for when identifying children’s media: big pictures, bold and eye-catching colors, large fonts. Children’s books especially are known for these traits, and have been since the 19th century, when they firstContinue reading “Students investigate: eye-catching color in early children’s books”

Curator Q&A with Damien Ihrig

Paper Engineering in Art, Science, and Education, the fall 2025 exhibition in the Main Library Gallery, features an array of unique items from University of Iowa Libraries collections that share the history of paper technologies and movable books. A significant number of books on display are from the John Martin Rare Book Room at HardinContinue reading “Curator Q&A with Damien Ihrig”

Students investigate: a brief history of cards

This series features the work and research of UI students. The following was written by Cecil Campbell, exhibition and engagement student lead for the Main Library Gallery.  Cards are found in many games, across time and place. They can be adapted to appeal to different ages, different playing styles, and even different commercial franchises. The historyContinue reading “Students investigate: a brief history of cards”

Students investigate: examining paper technology and cultural trends through paper dolls

This series features the work and research of UI students. The following was written by Cecil Campbell, exhibition and engagement student lead for the Main Library Gallery. Everyone can relate to the experience of playing with toys as a little kid. Whether Barbie dolls or action figures, dump trucks or Hot Wheels, the toys weContinue reading “Students investigate: examining paper technology and cultural trends through paper dolls”