The Des Moines Art Center is a vibrant museum of 20th and 21st century art located at 4700 Grand Avenue. Did you know: Admission to the museum is always free!
The Art Center has provided access to a world-class art collection, major exhibitions, hands-on educational programs, and unforgettable experiences that have sparked inspiration and creativity since 1948. The Art Center also includes the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park situated on 4.4 acres in downtown Des Moines. The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand connect the museum to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. 
“Whether through collaborations with artists and other partners, or bringing thought-provoking exhibitions and programming to Des Moines, our focus is to bring the world to Iowa and Iowa to the world, ensuring that everyone feels welcome, included, and inspired when they walk through our doors or stroll through the sculpture park,” said Shae Rossetti, Marketing Manager.
The Art Center welcomes more than 300,000 visitors annually! Its historic campus comprises three buildings designed by major 20th-century architects—Eliel Saarinen, I. M. Pei, and Richard Meier—all integrated into the natural landscape of Greenwood Park. It is also home to a school for studio art education and a museum gift shop.
There are always new events happening at The Art Center. For a full listing, visit desmoinesartcenter.org/calendar. For now, mark your calendars for the opening celebration of “Samantha Box: Caribbean Dreams” taking place in the Anna K. Meredith Gallery on October 10 and the Art Center’s annual Día de Los Muertos celebration on October 27.
1 question for The Art Center:
Q: What’s your favorite part about being near The Avenues?
A:We appreciate the growth and vibrancy of the Ingersoll & Grand area. It’s exciting to see this neighborhood becoming a hub for art and culture, and we’re enthusiastic about its potential to attract both local and out-of-state visitors. We look forward to seeing this dynamic community continue to grow.
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