A Creative Community In Downtown Des Moines

upcoming events Your source for First Fridays, Workshops, Classes, Special Events + More

Jun 02

First Friday | Take Up Space: An Experience of Mental Health and Neurodiversity

Welcome to Take Up Space: Experience the beauty and the struggle of living with mental health or neurodiversity through art. Society often teaches individuals with mental health issues or neurodiversity to blend in. Take Up Space celebrates the beauty behind our uniqueness. We invite you to experience the voices and perspectives of our artists and to think about how you too can learn to Take Up Space. Take Up Space was created by Momentum Studios, a program of Community Support Advocates. It was made possible by funding from the Iowa Art Council, Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs, the National Endowment of the Arts, and our sponsors.

Jun 03

Art Class Ages 9-17

Students choose what they want to create in this one hour art class with certified art educator, Jess Quinn. They start by choosing the medium, acrylics, watercolors, pencils, markers, or mixed media. Next they decide their subject, landscape, abstract, animals, people etc. All materials as well as guidance and instruction are given during the class. Class held in studio #200

Jun 03

Adult Art Class Ages 16+

Looking for an excuse to get out of the house and be creative. This is it! Bring a project you need to finish or use my supplies to start a new one. This is a great opportunity to get input and make art with other creatives. Are you a beginner? This class is for you too! I will help guide you in making an artwork you can be proud of. Taught by Jess Quinn, a certified art educator and artist; classes held in studio #200

Jun 03

Art Class Ages 5-10

Jess Quinn, licensed art educator, in studio #200 will introduce your child to basic art techniques that will provide a solid foundation for future art lovers and artists. Children will explore art using paint, oil pastels, and drawing media. This unique learning experience places an emphasis on having fun while exploring creativity.

Transforming Central Iowa's Art Scene

Mainframe Studios is like no other. Not only is it the largest nonprofit art studio building in the nation, it is also the only financially self-sustaining model of its kind.

Explore Artists

People confuse custom with expensive. It can be formal gowns, but also your favorite pair of sweat pants that are ruined because you wore then every single day for years. Custom really means making whatever you want!

GRETCHEN BOHLINGGRETCHENBOHLING.COM

“Mainframe is a diamond on the Iowa prairie…all kinds of artists coming at you from every direction.  They could charge admission.”

ED RUSCHAEDRUSCHA.COM