Des Moines Art Center

Opening Night: Annual Des Moines Latino Film Festival
2023-06-13 16:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
In partnership with the Latino Center of Iowa, get ready to celebrate Latino cinema while kicking off the 2023 Latino Film Festival! Join us while we gather to eat, drink, and enjoy a memorable evening uplifting filmmakers and the incredible stories they bring to life. A reception will take place from 4:30 – 5:30 pm, and the first film will begin at 5:30 pm. Following a brief intermission, the final film will be shown.
Reservations requested. This event is free.
Films:
“Letters / Cartas” 2023
Director: Eva Beunza
Run time: 14 minutes
Synopsis: Emma has been working for some time to get a job in Canada. After much effort and hours of work, she receives a letter stating that she has been selected. Everything takes a turn when she asks her partner to move to Canada together. Memories of her childhood, the relationship with her parents, and the couple’s situation make them doubt their future.
“Lili” 2022
Director: Brian Ríos
Run time: 15 minutes
Synopsis: A father and daughter must cross the border in order to find a better life. However, the journey is made more difficult because the daughter cannot speak.
“When Jack Came Back” 2022
Director: Thor Moreno
Run time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Synopsis: Jack, a down-on-his-luck actor, begrudgingly comes home after the death of his father only to find that his mom is in the grip of Alzheimer’s Disease. Now the two of them must find some common ground as Nancy’s time is running out.
*Stick around for a Q&A with Director, Thor Moreno!

Welcome Celebration for Dr. Kelly Baum
2023-06-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join the Art Center as we welcome Kelly Baum, our new John and Mary Pappajohn Director, at an open house reception! Enjoy complimentary refreshments and small bites by Tangerine at the Art Center, and meet Kelly during this drop-in event in the Macomber Lobby and Bookey Family Courtyard. Live music will be provided by DJ DAS. The galleries and Museum Shop will be open until 7 pm.
This event is free, and no registration is required.

Summer in the Courtyard: A Tasting of Summer’s Bounty
2023-08-03 17:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Reservations have closed for this event.
The Tangerine Food Company presents an evening of food and wine in the Art Center’s beautiful Bookey Family Courtyard. This produce-driven event features a 5-course dinner with wine pairings set amongst “Man and Pegasus” by Carl Milles and the twinkle of lights in the Maytag Reflecting Pool.
Cocktail service begins at 5 pm followed by a plated meal at 6 pm.
Appetizer with bubbles
Amuse bouche
Starter
Entree
Dessert
Mignardise
Wine pairings
$155 per person / Reservations required. Limited seating available.
Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated.

75th Anniversary Community Lawn Party
2023-08-19 11:00 - 15:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
When the Des Moines Art Center opened its doors in 1948, one of the first celebratory events was a joyful gathering on the museum lawn. Our community came together, galvanized by a curiosity to experience the modern spaces and treasures of the new museum. 75 years later, the awe and inspiration of the Art Center endures. We invite the community to join us once again in our 75th anniversary for a lawn party in front of the museum!
Join us for a day of free art activities, ceramics demonstrations, old-fashioned games, live music spanning the eras provided by Midnight Madness Quartet and Girls Rock! Des Moines, and, of course, celebratory cake. Food truck favorites will be available for purchase from: Hey Schweetie, Karam’s Mediterranean Grill, Outside Scoop, and The Traveling Bean.
Art activities throughout the day include a Raku firing demonstration, wheel throwing and 75th anniversary commemorative vessels, weaving, souvenir sketchbooks, and scavenger hunt prompts. The museum galleries will be open! Explore the world-class art and architecture that has made the Des Moines Art Center remarkable since 1948. Check out the exhibition “Making the Art Center” (just off the lobby of the museum) to learn about the years of Art Center history.
Art Center members are encouraged to stop by the Membership Tent and show your printed or digital membership card for a gift* 75-year tote bag! Staff will also be available to assist anyone interested in becoming a member during the event. *While supplies last.
This event is free, and no registration is required. Scheduled to take place rain or shine.

Belonging Project Reception
2023-08-25 17:00 - 18:30 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
The Des Moines Art Center, in partnership with Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa (RACI) and West Des Moines Public Schools’ Refugee and Immigrant Student Embassy (RISE) has brought together immigrant and refugee organizations to explore belonging through art and connection. Inspired by Ana Mendieta’s artwork, on loan from the Art Bridges Foundation, the Belonging Project program has included tours, events, and a collaborative art project designed by the RISE students.
Ana Mendieta’s iconic silueta artwork, “Fundamento de Palo Monte: Silueta Series (Gunpowder Works),” 1980, captures the artist’s exploration of her Cuban heritage and her connection to nature as a Cuban-exile in the United States. The film documents the transformation of a hollow bodily form filled with gunpowder, set ablaze to reveal a pile of ash surrounding a raised-heart made of rocks. Mendieta’s performance embodies themes of destruction, rebirth, and the search for a sense of belonging to a specific time and place.
Join us at the Art Center for a reception and community celebration showcasing the completed artwork from the project. Don’t miss this inspiring event celebrating diversity, culture, and the power of art to create a sense of belonging.

Museum Shop Trunk Show, featuring Crystal Hartman Jewelry
2023-08-26 11:00 - 16:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
The Des Moines Art Center’s Museum Shop invites you to a special trunk show and sale featuring Durango, CO native Crystal Hartman, an artist and jewelry maker based in Urbana, IL. Hartman is committed to the lost process of wax carving and casting using primarily local, sustainably-harvested beeswax and reclaimed sterling silver, gold, and ancient bronze. Her work utilizes experimental practices in painting, artist books, and the lost wax tradition to explore possibilities of harmonious living and advocate for the natural world offering contemporary mythologies in which non-human life reigns. Through her process inspired by nature and growth, Hartman creates “elegant, strong, earthy stand-alone pieces and stackable stories.”
Members receive double discounts on all Crystal Hartman jewelry purchased during the event. This event is free and no registration is required.

"Underneath Everything" Gallery Talk featuring Artist Ingrid Lilligren
2023-08-27 13:30 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join us and Artist Ingrid Lilligren for a gallery talk of the Art Center’s current exhibition “Underneath Everything: Humility and Grandeur in Contemporary Ceramics.” Lilligren’s work “Red Ice Dream” is on view in the I.M. Pei galleries as part of the show. Exhibition Curator, Mia Laufer, Ph. D., will provide an overview of the exhibition alongside exhibition advisor and Art Center Studio Arts Manager, Chuck Purviance, then the artist will talk about her work.
This event is free, and no registration is required.
Ingrid Lilligren (American)
Red Ice Dream, 2020
Ceramic, wood, ice, unfired clay, sheet metal
Courtesy of the artist

Double Take Gallery Talk
2023-09-17 13:30 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join the Art Center for a Gallery Talk of the new print gallery exhibition, “Double Take.” Get an inside look into the creation of the gallery from Guest Curator and Photographer Ben Easter and Senior Curator Laura Burkhalter.
This event is free, and no registration is required.
Image left:
Edward W. Quigley (American, 1898 – 1977)
Portrait of young woman holding up a tennis racquet, 1937
Vintage gelatin silver print
Des Moines Art Center Permanent Collections; Gift of Jeff Perry, 2021.29
Image right:
Dmitri Baltermants (Russian, 1912 – 1990)
Test Pilot Ahmet Khan Sultan, Twice Hero of the Soviet Union, 1961, printed 2003
Gelatin silver estate print
Des Moines Art Center Permanent Collections; Gift of Jeff Perry, 2021.33

Des Moines Art Center 2023 Gala
2023-09-22 18:30 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
The Des Moines Art Center Gala is an annual celebration that serves as the organization’s only fundraising event. Funds generated by the gala support free admission, community access, and museum education-related programming. This year’s event will take place on the Art Center lawn, at the west side of the Richard Meier building.
6:30 PM
Cocktails | Richard Meier Terrace*
7:30 PM
Dinner on the Rooftop Garden | Richard Meier Building
Dancing after Dinner
Final Mix Show Band featuring Del “Saxman” Jones
Valet Parking
Black Tie Optional
*Scheduled to take place rain or shine.
This event is currently sold out. For questions or to be added to the waitlist, please contact Jess Lane at 515.271.0336 or jlane@desmoinesartcenter.org.

Being with Art Together
2023-10-05 17:30 - 18:30 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
In partnership with MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center’s Integrative Medicine program, the Des Moines Art Center offers quarterly meditative art tours in the museum. The program titled “Being with Art Together” invites community members impacted by cancer and their families to a one-hour guided experience leveraging art, the museum, and shared experiences as a form of healing.
Being with Art Together is free to attend and open to anyone and everyone impacted by cancer. No reservations required. Please reach out to Museum Educator Mia Buch with any questions at mbuch@desmoinesartcenter.org.

Exhibition Opening Celebration: "Transform Any Room"
2023-10-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join us for the opening celebration of “Transform Any Room.” The exhibition features subversive, politicized, and sometimes glamorized versions of the textiles and objects we bring into our homes that inevitably reveal much about who we are and how we live.
Be among the first to view the newest exhibition and soak in the ambience of unique textiles and spectacular artworks. Guests will enjoy music from DJ Richie Daggers. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be available by Tangerine at the Art Center, and as a nod to the beaded cherry pie found in artist Liza Lou’s “Kitchen,” we’ll be serving up delectable hand pies by Pie Bird Pies. Come early before they’re gone!
This event is free; registration is not required.
Liza Lou (American, born 1969)
“Kitchen” (detail), 1991-1996
Beads, plaster, wood and found objects
Whitney Museum of American Art, New York; gift of Peter Norton, 2008.339.a-.x
Photo: Courtesy of Liza Lou
Support for this exhibition is provided by:

Ellsworth Kelly Foundation
Teiger Foundation
The views and opinions expressed by this program do not necessarily reflect those of Humanities Iowa.

Winefest: Art of Wine Dinner presented by BrownWinick
2023-10-11 18:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Embark on a sensory journey at the Art of Wine Dinner presented by BrownWinick, where art, wine, and exquisite cuisine intertwine. The pairings for the evening have been inspired by four Des Moines Art Center art works. During dinner, Art Center docents will walk participants through the style and inspiration for the art works inspiring the evening. The food will be prepared by Tangerine at the Art Center.
This event requires registration, ages 21+.
TICKETS

Iowa Latino Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
2023-10-13 17:30 - 20:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
The Iowa Commission of Latino Affairs will be inducting six Latinos into the Iowa Latino Hall of Fame. This event is free and open to the public.

Gallery Talk with Artist Max Colby and Laura Burkhalter, Senior Curator
2023-10-19 18:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join Senior Curator Laura Burkhalter for an overview of “Transform Any Room” followed by a conversation with visiting Artist Max Colby. Comprised of colorful materials and fabrics, Colby’s multi-piece work, “They Consume Each Other,” will be on view in the Anna K. Meredith gallery as part of the upcoming exhibition.
This event is free, and no registration is required.
Program supported by Humanities Iowa. The views and opinions expressed by these programs do not necessarily reflect those of Humanities Iowa.
Max Colby (American, born 1990)
They Consume Each Other 2018-2021
Crystal, plastic, and wood beads and sequins, found fabric, trim, fabric flowers, ribbon, costume jewelry, keychains, ornaments, toys, polyester batting, thread, glass stands
Courtesy of the artist

Art & Activism Free Teen Workshop with Artist Max Colby
2023-10-20 - 2023-10-22 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
During this three-day Art & Activism workshop, “Examining Gendered Aesthetics: Queer/Trans studies and the Mundane,” Des Moines Teens are invited to work with Artist Max Colby. Through an investigation in collage, participants will dissect objects and materials of their choosing which have an aesthetic that has either personally or culturally impacted their understanding of self, gender, and/or sexuality. Throughout the course, participants will address objectives as artists affecting social change and goals in breaking down barriers as LGBTQIA+ artists and change makers.
No prior experience is needed to participate. This workshop is free, and registration is required.
Schedule and Times:
October 20: 4 – 7 pm / Art Center studios
October 21: 10 am – 3 pm / Art Center studios
October 22: 10 am – 3 pm / Art Center studios
REGISTER
Program supported by Humanities Iowa. The views and opinions expressed by these programs do not necessarily reflect those of Humanities Iowa.
Art & Activism programming is provided at no cost to participants through the generosity of donors and Art Center members.
Photo: Nadia Leon Photography

Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead
2023-10-29 11:00 - 15:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join us for the Des Moines Art Center’s 2023 Day of the Dead celebration, Unidos Por Deportes (United by Sports), which pays homage to the integral role that organized sports play in Mexican communities throughout Iowa. This festive, free, family event features hands-on art activities, traditional food, music, sports demonstrations, and an ofrenda showcasing the achievements and contributions of local Latinx athletes.
From baseball and basketball to boxing and soccer, organized sports foster pride and resilience in our vibrant community. Join us to experience a unique fusion of culture and athletics, honoring the past, embracing the present, and celebrating the unity that will help us move into the future.
Event Schedule and Vendors:
Food and drink available from Tangerine at the Art Center, Tamales Industry, Tullpa Restaurant, Monarca Paletas, and Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure
11 am – 3 pm
Music from The Juan and Only Trio
DeeJay Lizz
Art making activities
Ofrenda on view in the Macomber Lobby
Memory Wall on view in the Kelly Auditorium Lobby
11:30 am
Processional begins in the Macomber Lobby
12 pm and 2:30 pm
Honoree Film by Vince Valdez
1 pm and 1:45 pm
Salsa Lessons by Des Moines Ballroom
Take advantage of easy parking and a free shuttle from Merrill Middle School, running continuously from 11 am to 3 pm.
Support for this event is provided by:

This event is free, and no registration is required. This event will be documented with photography.

Entirely Kids Day: Playing House
2023-11-25 11:00 - 15:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Designed for art lovers of any age, Entirely Kids Day: Playing House at the Des Moines Art Center is inspired by the warmth of home, the joy of play, and the must-see exhibition Transform Any Room.
How do you create a home? Artists may craft one through paint and canvas, families construct theirs with hard work and love, while children often create theirs through the power of imagination. Come and play “house” at the Art Center during Entirely Kids Day. This free, fun day for friends and family is the perfect opportunity to spend time together creating lasting memories. Enjoy a day full of hands-on art making, kid-friendly entertainment, and museum exploration.
Event Schedule:
DSM BINGO
11:30 – 12 pm and 1:30 – 2 pm
Gather for a lively game of Des Moines BINGO perfect for all ages. Learn more about the city that the Art Center, and many of you, call home, as you identify local icons and compete for fabulous prizes! BINGO led by local author and DSM Parent writer Erin Huiatt; prizes donated by Flag of Des Moines.
YARN HOUSE LIVE WITH LESLIE HALL
Levvitt Auditorium | 12:30 – 1 pm and 2:30 – 3 pm
Leslie Hall, music superstar, crafty icon, and internet celebrity invites you to visit her, and her best friend Ribbons the chicken to gather round for a show is unlike any you’ve ever seen before. Lelise is here live for questions, photos, and maybe even a dance party following a screening of her hit YouTube show “Yarn House Live.”
This event is free, and no registration is required. This event will be documented with photography.

Vox Infinitus: a Live A Cappella Performance
2024-01-26 18:30 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Vox Infinitus is Des Moines’ premiere men’s a cappella choir, delighting and inspiring audiences with a variety of musical genres. The name “Vox Infinitus,” Latin for ‘the voice is infinite,’ is brought to life through the choir’s incredible vocals and limitless variety of repertoires. Through monthly social events, regular concerts, and community performances across the Metro, this ensemble uses their voice, or rather “vox,” to bring people together.
Join us at the Art Center for a performance of upbeat contemporary songs, traditional barbershop classics, and choral a cappella music within the awe-inspiring acoustics of the I. M. Pei building.
This event is free; registration is not required. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All programs.

Exhibition Opening Celebration: "States of Becoming"
2024-02-09 17:00 - 19:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join us for the opening celebration of “States of Becoming.” The exhibition examines the dynamic forces of relocation, resettling, and assimilation that shape the artistic practices of a group of contemporary African artists working in the United States.
Be among the first to view the newest exhibition. Bring family and friends to kick off the evening with complimentary African flare cuisine served by Bah Kunda Kitchen. Sip on refreshments by Tangerine Food Co, and enjoy spectacular floral design by Wild Flower.
This event is free; registration is not required. This event will be documented with photography.
Gabriel C. Amadi-Emina
“Fade Catcher,” 2021
Diptych photographic print on museo silver rag adhered flat on wooden panel
Courtesy of the artist
“States of Becoming” is a traveling exhibition curated by Fitsum Shebeshe and produced by Independent Curators International (ICI), New York. Lead funding is provided by the Hartfield Foundation as part of an initiative to support ICI’s commitment to new curatorial voices who will shape the future of the field, and ICI’s Curatorial Intensive alumni as they move through the stages of their career. “States of Becoming” is made possible with the generous support of ICI’s Board of Trustees and International Forum. Crozier Fine Arts is the Preferred Art Logistics Partner.
The presentation at the Des Moines Art Center has been organized in collaboration with Senior Curator Laura Burkhalter.
Additional support for this exhibition is provided by:

Japanese Hinamatsuri Weekend: Hina Doll Display
2024-03-01 - 2024-03-03 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
In partnership with Japan America Society of Iowa, join the Des Moines Art Center in celebration of Japanese Hinamatsuri Weekend! Hinamatsuri, a cherished Japanese traditional celebration, takes place on March 3 each year. Rooted in centuries-old customs, this festival originally emerged as a joyous occasion dedicated to commemorating the growth of family daughters and hoping for prosperity for the household. Central to the festivities is the arrangement of exquisite Hina dolls, symbolic representations of familial well-being and the blossoming of spring. View the traditional doll display in the Macomber Lobby of the Art Center throughout the weekend.
Modern Hinamatsuri serves as a moment to appreciate the enchanting beauty of traditional Japanese dolls that signal the arrival of the spring season. Moreover, it has acquired a broader significance, marking a time for gratitude and reflection on the passage of another year with good health, despite any obstacles.
The inception of this tradition goes back to a poignant era when indigenous stories recount a devastating epidemic claiming the lives of infant girls in villages. Faced with the absence of medical remedies, desperate parents turned to prayer as their only recourse. Crafting straw dolls, they strategically placed them within their homes, believing that when the ominous specter of disease loomed, these surrogate figures would be taken in lieu of their beloved daughters, sparing them from harm.
The Heian Era (8th – 12th centuries) witnessed the early inklings of the customs to play with dolls, particularly among girls in affluent households. However, it was during the Edo era (17th – 19th centuries) that a transformative shift occurred. Prosperous merchants, buoyed by financial success, engaged doll masters to craft elaborate family heirlooms. Doll masters created a collection of dolls inspired by the lifestyle of the Heian Era court. The ensemble included representations of the Emperor and Empress, three maids in waiting, five court musicians, two governors of the court, and various servants. The inclusion of three servants symbolizes the presence of a larger ensemble, comprising individuals of different ages—youth, middle age, and the elderly. This has become the standard display we recognize today—a set of 15 meticulously arranged Hina dolls, a testament to the enduring cultural legacy of Hinamatsuri.
This event is free, and registration is not required. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All programs.

Community Access Program: Adaptive Arts Exhibition Opening Celebration
2024-03-01 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join us for the opening celebration of the Community Access Program Adaptive Arts exhibition! Community Access discovers creative ways of making artworks and art-making accessible to those in our community that otherwise lack this access. Artwork on view has been created by Art Spectrums program participants, Link Associates, Des Moines Public Schools, and Des Moines Blind and Low Vision Community.
Stop by the Art Center and enjoy the opening celebration all day on Friday, March 1 from 10 am – 7 pm. Light refreshments will be provided throughout the day. The Adaptive Arts exhibition will be on view in the Herbert Galleries of the Education Wing from March 1 – 31.

Japanese Hinamatsuri Weekend: Origami
2024-03-02 13:00 - 15:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
In partnership with Japan America Society of Iowa, join the Des Moines Art Center in celebration of Japanese Hinamatsuri Weekend! Guests are invited to join an instructor to learn about and try their hand at the practice of origami.
Origami is an enchanting traditional craft that transforms a simple piece of paper into intricate three-dimensional objects. The essence of successful origami lies in three key elements: precision, pressure, and patience. Each fold demands precision, ensuring that corners meet exactly, and sides align seamlessly. Applying the appropriate amount of pressure is crucial to establish creases that hold. Equally important is practicing patience, allowing yourself the time to carefully navigate through each step of the process.
This event is free, and registration is not required. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All programs.

Japanese Hinamatsuri Weekend: Kimono Fashion Show
2024-03-03 14:00 - 15:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
In partnership with Japan America Society of Iowa, join the Des Moines Art Center in celebration of Japanese Hinamatsuri Weekend! Guests are invited to observe a kimono fashion show at the Art Center. The fashion show is set to highlight various styles of kimono, providing insight into their personal histories and showcasing the diverse ways in which these garments have been adorned.
The kimono, derived from the words ‘ki’ meaning wear, and ‘mono’ meaning thing, is Japan’s national garment, symbolizing a rich cultural heritage that has evolved over centuries. In the pre-Meiji era (1868-1912), kimonos were a common sight worn by individuals of all genders in their daily lives. However, as foreign culture gained influence, these traditional garments gradually gave way to Western attire. Despite the evolving fashion landscape, the Japanese maintained an affection for traditional wear, particularly within the comfort of their homes.
Following World War II, kimonos found a renewed role in society, reserving their significance for formal occasions such as weddings and New Year celebrations. The intricate process of putting on a kimono, involving layers and specific skills, has become somewhat of a lost art and many seek assistance from professionals or tutorials. All kimonos share the same basic shape, differing only in the length of their sleeves. It is the materials used that distinguish between formal and casual variations.
This event is free, and registration is not required. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All programs.

“States of Becoming” Gallery Talk featuring artist Elshafei Dafalla
2024-03-14 18:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join Senior Curator Laura Burkhalter and artist Elshafei Dafalla for a gallery talk of the traveling exhibition, “States of Becoming.” Dafalla is a Sudanese American artist and human rights activist. He is a sculptor, photographer, painter, and installation artist with a special interest in sound. His work is noted for its political engagement with different world cultures and has been celebrated for its capacity to create solidarity among communities and peoples across political, cultural, and racial differences.
This event is free, and no registration is required.
Photo: Jonathan Banks
“States of Becoming” is a traveling exhibition curated by Fitsum Shebeshe and produced by Independent Curators International (ICI), New York. Lead funding is provided by the Hartfield Foundation as part of an initiative to support ICI’s commitment to new curatorial voices who will shape the future of the field, and ICI’s Curatorial Intensive alumni as they move through the stages of their career. “States of Becoming” is made possible with the generous support of ICI’s Board of Trustees and International Forum. Crozier Fine Arts is the Preferred Art Logistics Partner.
The presentation at the Des Moines Art Center has been organized in collaboration with Senior Curator Laura Burkhalter.
Additional support for this exhibition is provided by:

Entirely Kids Day: Africa
2024-03-16 11:00 - 15:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
While the world is a big and fascinating place, art and culture bring people of the world closer together. Designed for art lovers of any age, Entirely Kids Day: Africa is a free event inviting visitors to explore the museum and participate in hands on activities, dance, music, and more inspired by the Art Center’s current exhibition, “States of Becoming.” Curated by Fitsum Shebeshe, the exhibition showcases the work of 17 US-based African artists. Through their unique voices and artwork, the artists explore the intersection of their African roots and American experiences.
This event is free, and no registration is required. This event will be documented with photography.
Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All programs.
Event Schedule:
Film in Levitt Auditorium: “Gifts for Mother Africa” l 11:15 am – 12 pm
Presented by Fonziba Drums, discover the vibrant culture of a West African family, learning about the Dembele family’s traditional drumming legacy.
West African Drumming Workshop (Ages 8+) l 12:15 – 12:45 pm
Try your hand at traditional rhythms with jembe drums and hand-held percussion instruments with Fonziba Drums!
Kakaleka African Dance Team Performance l 1 – 1:30 pm
Enjoy a traditional Liberian celebration dance performed by Des Moines area youth.
Paper Boat Activity led by artist Elshafei Dafalla l 2 – 2:30 pm
Join “States of Becoming” artist Elshafei Dafalla on this artistic journey, where paper becomes a medium for peace and folds become a path towards unity.

Community Access Program: Student Exhibition Opening Celebration
2024-04-05 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Join us for the opening celebration of the Community Access Program student exhibition! Community Access discovers creative ways of making artworks and art-making accessible to those in our community that otherwise lack this access. Artwork on view has been created by Advanced Learning Program, Al Exito, Achieving Maximum Potential, Children’s Cancer Connection, Conmigo Early Education Center, Des Moines Deaf Community Art Gathering, Families Forward, Des Moines Public Schools, Lutheran Services of Iowa, Queer Youth Resource Center, Woodward Academy, Young Women’s Resource Center, Veterans RCF, and Veterans Art Club.
Stop by the Art Center and enjoy the opening celebration all day on Friday, April 5 from 10 am – 7 pm. Light refreshments will be provided throughout the day. The student exhibition will be on view in the Herbert Galleries of the Education Wing from April 5 – May 5.

Barefoot Autism Challenge
2024-04-06 11:00 - 12:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
In recognition of Autism Awareness Month in April, we invite visitors to join us in the Barefoot Autism Challenge! The challenge, created by Des Moines local Tyler Leech, is about going barefoot as a sensory activity for autism awareness. Take off your shoes to immerse yourself in the environment and enjoy a guided tour of the museum.
This event is free; registration is not required. Tyler encourages participants to spread the word and challenge friends to go barefoot for autism awareness using #barefootautismchallenge on social media platforms.

Poetry Takeover
2024-04-11 17:00 - 19:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Poetry is taking over the Art Center in celebration of National Poetry Month! We’re welcoming members of the Des Moines Poetry Workshop, Iowa Poetry Association, Poetry Palooza, and SAY Poetry for this collaborative and interactive event. Poets of all ages and experience levels will perform poetry throughout the museum, among the artworks that inspire them. For those who are inspired to create their own poetry during the event, a drop-in writing workshop will be offered in the Macomber Lobby, or you can head straight to your favorite spot and begin writing on your own.
This event is free; registration is not required.

"A Story of Hope" Documentary Screening
2024-04-14 13:00 - 14:00 | Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
“A Story of Hope” is a documentary short film by Ryan Morrison and Moses Bomett about the barriers to and importance of education in Kenya. It’s premiere will be screened at the Des Moines Art Center in partnership with Rising Daisies.

The 48 Hour Film Project
2024-05-31 19:00 - 21:30 | Levitt Auditorium, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
This year marks the 20th running season of the 48 Hour Film Project in Des Moines. As part of the celebration, a free public screening entitled “48 turns 20” will be held at the Art Center. Join us for an evening of award winning short films and filmmakers celebrating 20 seasons of the 48 Hour Film Project – Des Moines. Stay after the screening for a panel discussion including some winning teams from past Des Moines competitions. Seating is limited and first come first serve.
This event is free, and no registration is required. Find more information on the 48 Hour Film Project – Des Moines.
This screening includes a selection of previous Best of City Winners:
“Mimes of The Prairie” by Team Last to Enter, 2005
“Man Eating Dumpster” by Presto Video, 2006
“Looking Glass” by Nick Wilson Film & Video, 2008
“The Last Airbander” by Slater Maxwell Productions, 2012
“An Inevitable Mess” by 19 to the 4th Power plus Y, 2013
“Puppy Love” by SouthSiderStudios, 2015
“Paid In Full” by One Genome Short, 2016
“Happy Hiltons” by Illustrate, 2019
“Sanity” by Retro Neon Films, 2020
“Pay What You Can” by Peach Fuzz, 2021
“The Run” by Tiny Explosions, 2022
“Thumb Wars” by Mixed Pictures, 2023
