Date

Friday, September 5, 2025

Time

9:30 - 11:00 am

Event Details

Members at the Curator’s Circle ($550) and above are invited to Coffee with a Curator, an exclusive event featuring a gallery talk and casual group discussion. Local artist Ben Millett and Des Moines Art Center Senior Curator Laura Burkhalter, who co-curated “Iowa Artists 2025: Ben Millett,” will guide a limited in-person tour about the exhibition in the lower galleries of the Richard Meier building.

In vivid colors, Ben’s work introduces several themes in this presentation. His works inspire a direct dialogue around the importance and history of Queer pride, echoing multiple works in the galleries that tell stories of identity, visibility, and justice. It is a timely and groundbreaking entry into the museum’s decades-long series presenting the best of Iowa-made art, and the first solo show by a quilt maker in our history.

After the gallery talk, enjoy coffee and pastries with Ben, Laura, and your fellow members in the Art Center Café, presented by la mie.

Register by August 29. Space is limited.

Curator’s Circle+ members can RSVP by emailing Jess Lane, Gala and Development Events Coordinator at jlane@desmoinesartcenter.org.
Become a member or upgrade your membership. 

Pictured: Des Moines Art Center Senior Curator Laura Burkhalter and artist Ben Millett at the “Iowa Artists 2025: Ben Millett” exhibition opening. Photo: Brittany Brooke Crow.

Location

Des Moines Art Center
4700 Grand Ave
Des Moines, IA 50312 United States