Painted Porch is a trio of small-town Midwest musicians—Mark Nolte, Jeff Disterhoft, and Jay Waltner—who believe great music is even better when it brings people together.
Their acoustic, sing-along style features songs you know and love, paired with stories, humor, and a few life lessons along the way. The name Painted Porch is inspired by the Stoic tradition of the painted porch—a place for gathering, conversation, and sharing ideas. That spirit is at the heart of what they bring to every performance.
Think of them as the folks you want around your campfire.
Painted Porch puts a fresh spin on familiar favorites, performing acoustic covers of songs many of us grew up with. You’ll recognize the music, but their stripped-down arrangements and harmonies may have you hearing some old favorites in an entirely new way.
The trio recently welcomed Jay Waltner, a South Dakota Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and seasoned bass player with decades of experience across country, rock, R&B, and worship music. Jay’s musical journey has taken him from bands in Chicago and Indiana to worship music in Iowa, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep love of music to the group.
Together, Mark, Jeff, and Jay bring heart, harmony, history, and a whole lot of fun to their performances.
We’re thrilled to welcome Painted Porch to the Kiln Patio for Light the Fires and can’t think of a better soundtrack for an autumn afternoon of music, food, friendship, and community.
We’re excited to feature Hangry Lady, Allie Lan, a local, woman-owned business located in the NewBo area of Cedar Rapids.
Founded in 2020 by a Cedar Rapids native and Washington High School graduate, Hangry Lady specializes in charcuterie and grazing tables for gatherings and events. Owner and chef earned degrees in both Dietetics and Culinary Arts from Kirkwood Community College before working as Chef de Cuisine at Caucho and Executive Chef at Popoli.
Hangry Lady has created grazing tables, wedding spreads, and charcuterie cups for events throughout the area. For Light the Fires, Hangry Lady will provide a selection of charcuterie and light bites for guests to enjoy throughout the afternoon.
We’re proud to feature a local business as part of an afternoon centered around community, creativity, and connection.
Bring your appetite, bring a friend, and come enjoy a night of delicious snacks, drinks, and festive energy!
Show your love for the Iowa Ceramics Center & Glass Studio with one of our sweatshirts!
Sweatshirts will be available for pre-order leading up to Light the Fires. Place your order by October ahead of time and pick up your sweatshirt at the fundraiser on Sunday, October 25th.
A cozy way to support the Center, represent your creative community, and stay warm through the fall studio season.
