ABOUT
the Ankeny Art Center
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The Ankeny Art Center strengthens the creative life of northern Polk County by providing accessible opportunities for people to learn, create, and experience art. Through classes, youth programs, rotating exhibitions, and community partnerships, the center helps residents connect through creativity while supporting local artists and building a stronger cultural identity for the region.​
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History: The Ankeny Friends of the Arts was founded in 1981 to bring arts programming to the Ankeny community and the northern Des Moines metro area. In 2002, the organization was given the opportunity to move into its current home at 1520 SW Ordnance Road, where the Ankeny Art Center was officially established as a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization.
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Today, the Ankeny Art Center provides exhibitions, classes, events, and creative opportunities for artists of all ages and skill levels. We are proud to welcome more than 8,000 visitors each year as we continue to bring art to people and people to art.​
Mission: To enrich the quality of life in our community through visual arts education, exhibitions and events.
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Education
Many people stop exploring art after childhood, even though creativity remains important throughout life. The Art Center offers beginner-friendly classes, youth programs, and summer camps that make artistic learning accessible at any stage. Anyone can start creating by joining a class or encouraging young artists to explore new skills.
Exhibitions
Local artists play a vital role in shaping a community's cultural identity, and the opportunity to experience and share art inspires creativity in people of all ages. That's why the Ankeny Art Center hosts rotating gallery exhibitions featuring K–12 student artists, emerging and established Iowa artists, and members of the AAC community. By showcasing a diverse range of work, we provide meaningful exhibition opportunities for artists at every stage of their creative journey.
Community events
Community events are an essential part of the mission to enhance quality of life for Ankeny and the surrounging region. They provide opportunities for people of all ages to connect through shared creative experiences while supporting artists, and the local economy. These events strengthen community pride, increase awareness of the Art Center, and inspire lasting engagement with the arts.
Building a Creative Community
As communities expand, people look for places where creativity and connection can happen together. The Art Center serves as a creative hub where families, artists, and residents gather to experience and create art. Community members are invited to participate in events, classes, and partnerships that strengthen the creative life of the region.
Partnerships and Community Engagement
Strong communities are built when organizations collaborate and share resources. The Art Center partners with local organizations and the City of Ankeny to expand access to arts experiences. Community groups and partners can work with the Art Center to bring creativity into shared spaces and community events.
Sustaining the Arts
Access to arts education and cultural experiences depends on long-term community support. The Art Center works to build sustainable funding through donors, grants, and community partnerships. Support from donors and sponsors helps ensure creative opportunities remain available to the entire community.
