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Keokuk Rocks the Arts Debuts June 9-11

Jason Parrott
/
TSPR
This metal sculpture will be dedicated Sunday afternoon at the end of Keokuk Rocks the Arts.

Organizers of the first Keokuk Rocks the Arts weekend want to see the community filled with out-of-town visitors and residents enjoying what Keokuk has to offer.

The Keokuk Fine Arts Council is organizing the event. Treasurer Bruce Dunek, who is also chairing the planning committee, said the council decided the time was right to host an event that would showcase the city.

“We discussed amongst ourselves what we could do for the community and how we could help make Keokuk a destination place for people,” said Dunek. “[We could] help the community gain tourism and create a fun event that the local people and people from out-of-town would really enjoy.”

The weekend will feature four main events including several cover bands and an annual event in Keokuk.

  • Saturday – 2:30 pm – Wine Over Water/Brews On The Bridge - $20
  • Saturday – 4:30 pm – Denny Diamond Concert - $20
  • Saturday – 7:30 pm – John Waite Concert - $35
  • Saturday – 9:30 pm – Hell’s Bells Concert - $20

Dunek said a weekend pass covering all four events costs just $50.
“We think it is a bargain for a weekend like this,” said Dunek, adding that there would be a series of free events throughout the weekend.

  • Guided Art Classes at Lost Canvas Gallery
  • Live Music and Art Exhibits at the Keokuk Union Depot
  • Flea Market at the Southside Boat Club
  • Historic Walking Tours

The weekend will culminate with the dedication of a sculpture by local metalsmith Mark Stanley. Stanley created a series of “waves” near the Rand Park Pavilion in honor of the Mississippi River.
Dunek said members of the community have really stepped up to make the event a reality.

“We discovered we are really good at getting volunteers and really good about planning events and really good about getting events lined up,” said Dunek. “[We are] not so good at marketing so [we need] people to talk about the event and come to Keokuk. If you’re in town, invite your children to come for the weekend.”

Jason Parrott is a former reporter at Tri States Public Radio.