Top Art Museums in Iowa You Should Visit

Source: Nhandler, Des Moines Art Center, Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Des_Moines_Art_Center

Iowa may be best known for its scenic landscapes and rich agricultural heritage, but it also boasts an impressive array of cultural treasures, especially when it comes to art. Across the state, you will find a diverse collection of art museums that offer everything from contemporary exhibitions to timeless classics. Whether you are a fan of modern installations, historical American art, or global masterpieces, there is an art museum in Iowa that will capture your imagination. These institutions not only showcase outstanding collections but also serve as vibrant community hubs, offering educational programs, workshops, and special events.

From major cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids to smaller towns with hidden gems, Iowa’s art museums invite visitors of all ages to experience creativity in countless forms. This guide will take you through some of the top art museums in Iowa you should add to your travel list, ensuring an enriching and inspiring journey through the state's artistic landscape.

Des Moines Art Center (Des Moines)

The Des Moines Art Center stands as a premier art museum in Iowa, renowned for its exceptional collection and architectural significance. Established in 1948, the museum's original building was designed by Eliel Saarinen, featuring a low-slung, horizontal structure with Art Deco influences and limestone cladding. Subsequent expansions include a 1968 addition by I.M. Pei and a 1985 wing by Richard Meier, each contributing to the center's architectural diversity.

The center's collection encompasses a wide range of artworks, including pieces by Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, Francis Bacon, Georgia O'Keeffe, Gerhard Richter, Claes Oldenburg, Mary Cassatt, Auguste Rodin, Grant Wood, Deborah Butterfield, Paul Gauguin, Eva Hesse, Ronnie Landfield, Roy Lichtenstein, George Segal, Mark Rothko, John Singer Sargent, Joseph Cornell, and Takashi Murakami. This diverse collection offers visitors a comprehensive view of modern and contemporary art.

In addition to its indoor galleries, the Des Moines Art Center operates the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, located in Western Gateway Park downtown. This outdoor space features a variety of sculptures, providing an accessible art experience in an urban setting.

The center also emphasizes community engagement through educational programs, workshops, and special events. Its commitment to accessibility is evident in its free admission policy, allowing visitors from all backgrounds to experience art without financial barriers.

For those interested in exploring an art museum in Iowa that combines architectural innovation with a rich collection, the Des Moines Art Center offers a compelling destination. Its blend of historical and contemporary elements provides a unique experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

University Of Iowa Stanley Museum Of Art (Iowa City)

The University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art, located in Iowa City, is a distinguished art museum in Iowa, known for its extensive and diverse collections. Established in 1969, the museum houses approximately 17,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photographs, ceramics, textiles, jade, and silver.

The museum's collection features significant works by artists such as Jackson Pollock, whose "Mural" was gifted by Peggy Guggenheim in 1951, Max Beckmann's triptych "Karneval," and pieces by Joan Miró, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, and Grant Wood. These works provide insight into various art movements and historical periods.

A notable aspect of the museum is the Stanley Collection of African Art, comprising nearly 2,000 objects, including wooden masks and figures from regions such as the Western Sudan, Guinea Coast, and Equatorial Forest. This collection supports educational initiatives and offers a comprehensive view of African artistic traditions.

In 2008, the museum faced significant challenges due to flooding, leading to the evacuation and temporary relocation of its collections. After extensive recovery efforts, the museum reopened in a new, state-of-the-art facility in August 2022, designed to serve as a hub for interdisciplinary teaching and community engagement.

The Stanley Museum of Art continues to play a vital role in the cultural landscape of Iowa, offering exhibitions, educational programs, and events that cater to a wide audience. Its commitment to preserving and showcasing diverse artworks makes it a significant destination for those interested in exploring an art museum in Iowa.

Figge Art Museum (Davenport)

Perched along the Mississippi River in Davenport, the Figge Art Museum is a cornerstone of Iowa's cultural landscape. Established in 1925 as the Davenport Municipal Art Gallery, it evolved into the Figge Art Museum in 2005, following the construction of a striking glass building designed by British architect David Chipperfield. This 115,000-square-foot facility features a dynamic façade of transparent and translucent glass, creating a luminous presence that reflects the river and sky.

The museum's collection, exceeding 4,000 works, offers an encyclopedic range from the 16th century to contemporary pieces. Highlights include American Regionalist art by Thomas Hart Benton, Marvin Cone, and Grant Wood, whose only self-portrait resides here. The museum also boasts significant holdings in Haitian and Colonial Mexican art, European masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt and Renoir, and East Asian works by Hokusai and Hiroshige.

A notable feature is the Grant Wood Archives, housing personal effects and artworks from the artist's estate. The museum's commitment to education is evident through its collaboration with Western Illinois University's Museum Studies program, offering a Master of Arts degree in museum management.

The Figge Art Museum's blend of architectural innovation and diverse collections makes it a premier art museum in Iowa, inviting visitors to explore a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Cedar Rapids Museum Of Art (Cedar Rapids)

Located in downtown Cedar Rapids, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art (CRMA) stands as a testament to Iowa's rich artistic heritage. Founded in 1905, the museum occupies a unique architectural space that combines the historic Carnegie Library with a modern addition designed by Charles Moore in 1989.

The CRMA houses over 7,800 works spanning from Roman antiquity to contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on American art from the early 20th century. It boasts the world's largest collection of works by Grant Wood, including notable pieces like "Woman with Plants" and "Young Corn." The museum also features significant collections of works by Marvin Cone, Bertha Jaques, and Mauricio Lasansky, as well as a distinguished array of ancient Roman portrait busts.

In 2002, the museum acquired Grant Wood's original studio at 5 Turner Alley, where he created many of his masterpieces, including "American Gothic." The studio is open to the public for guided tours, offering a glimpse into the artist's creative environment.

The CRMA's commitment to community engagement is evident through its educational programs, workshops, and rotating exhibitions that highlight both historical and contemporary art. Its dedication to preserving and showcasing Iowa's artistic legacy solidifies its status as a leading art museum in Iowa.

Brunnier Art Museum (Ames)

Situated within the Scheman Building at Iowa State University, the Brunnier Art Museum is a distinctive art museum in Iowa, renowned for its focus on decorative arts. Established in 1975, it holds the unique distinction of being the state's only accredited museum emphasizing a decorative arts collection. The museum was founded through the generous contributions of Henry J. Brunnier and his wife Ann, who donated an extensive collection of decorative arts, including ceramics, glass, dolls, ivory, jade, and enameled metals.

Over the years, the museum's collection has expanded significantly, now encompassing over 30,000 objects thanks to donations from more than 600 private patrons. The University Art Collection features a diverse array of artworks, including prints, paintings, sculptures, textiles, carpets, wood, lacquered objects, silver, and furniture. Notably, the museum houses the Iowa Quester Glass Collection, comprising over 1,600 pieces of American glass produced between 1840 and 1950.

The Brunnier Art Museum is committed to providing educational opportunities through its regularly changing exhibitions, which showcase both permanent and visiting collections. These exhibitions are complemented by lectures, receptions, university classes, panel discussions, and gallery walks, fostering a deeper understanding of the displayed artworks. One notable exhibition, "Reflections in Glass: A History of the Iowa Quester Glass Collection," highlighted the evolution of American glassmaking and featured iconic pieces such as the Ruba Rombic Art Deco pitcher designed by Reuben Haley.

In addition to its exhibitions, the museum offers various programs and resources aimed at engaging the community and enhancing visual literacy. These include guided tours, educational programs for K-12 students, and internships for university students. The museum also collaborates with the Iowa State University curriculum, integrating art into academic learning.

Visitors to the Brunnier Art Museum can explore its collections free of charge, with a suggested donation of $8. The museum operates from Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on weekends from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., remaining closed on Mondays and university holidays. Its location within the Iowa State Center—a hub for performing arts and conferences—further enhances its accessibility and appeal.

Conclusion

Visiting an art museum in Iowa offers more than just visual inspiration—it provides a deeper connection to culture, history, and creativity. From the modern masterpieces at the Des Moines Art Center to the decorative treasures of the Brunnier Art Museum, each location highlights the state's commitment to preserving and celebrating the arts. Whether you’re a lifelong art enthusiast or a curious traveler, Iowa’s art museums invite you to explore compelling collections, engage in educational programs, and enjoy enriching experiences. These institutions are essential destinations for anyone seeking to appreciate the vibrant art scene thriving throughout the state.

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