Des Moines Art Center is a hidden gem

The art center is an inspiring and free must-see location in Des Moines.

A statue made of lots of floating letters, featured at the Pappajohn's Sculpture Park sponsored by the Des Moines Art Center.
A statue at a sculpture garden sponsored by the Des Moines Art Center.

If you’re having trouble planning your weekend, look no further than the Des Moines Art Center.

It’s something we’ve all felt before – the desire to do something fun and interesting with your weekend, stifled by the anxiety or inability to spend money. But that can no longer be an excuse for sitting around all day: next time you’re feeling that sense of boredom, take a trip to the art center (as long as it’s not on a Monday; they’re closed then).

Open Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Des Moines art center is a staple of the Grand Ave. neighborhood. And, as mentioned already above, no wallet is required to enter (though you might want to visit the gift shop.)  

If you were looking for a meal with your art, however, you might want to check out a nearby spot, because the Des Moines art center restaurant is temporarily closed for renovations. The Station on Ingersoll or Eatery A are some favorites.

Des Moines Art Center Classes

If you’re looking for a more intensive involvement in the local art scene, the Des Moines Art Center does offer art classes in the morning, afternoon or evening. From calligraphy to photography, the center offers nine different disciplines in their classes for all age groups.

Determined to provide for all who are interested, the center also has a Community Access program that strives to make classes accessible to everyone.

Upcoming Events at the Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center also has a full calendar of events to wrap up the end of the year. Starting tomorrow with the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus’ winter preview, and ending the year with a Holiday Studio by Art Noir, there’s something for everyone in the next two months. Some of the events are free and some require tickets, so be sure to check the website to reserve a spot. So don’t wait! The art center is currently showing an exhibit created by Samantha Box, featuring a host of photographs and mixed-media pieces that you won’t want to miss. Also featured is an exhibition of 20th century Mexican photos – and upcoming in the summer is a Firelei Baez exhibit.

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