​Welcome to the Ames Community Arts Council

Who we are:

Artists and supporters of the arts, non-profit organizations and businesses have come together as the Ames Community Arts Council since 1976. We are dedicated to building a sense of community and helping artists succeed. We believe that participating in the arts--as audience members, musicians, actors, dancers, writers, makers, volunteers, and more--enriches our lives and our community. 

What we do:
The Ames Community Arts Council is a non-profit 501(c)(3) funded through memberships, donations, and grants, including the City of Ames Commission on the Arts (COTA). The Arts Council is dedicated to celebrating the arts and serving the community. 
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Here's a quick look at some things we do:
  • connect you to vocal and instrument concerts, dance and theater performances, visual arts exhibits, unique shopping, cultural events, arts classes and more through our free weekly on-line newsletter and on-line calendar. 
  • organize a monthly “gathering of artists” for local artists of all kinds. 
  • recognize excellence in the arts through the annual Arts Awards Celebration.
  • give you a behind-the-scenes look at local artists' studios with the Ames Artists' Studio Tour.
  • support opportunities that expand learning outside the regular classroom and utilize partnerships with artists / arts organizations through Arts in Education Grants. 
  • provide free art activities for the community.
  • make it easy to find an artist. Member artists are listed with links to their websites and social media pages.
  • provide special benefits for artists, art organizations and businesses and promote arts events of the members through traditional and social media.
  • We collaborate with Ames area organizations to support community activities. Let us know how we can partner with you!

News of the Day

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World Collage Day Event to be held at the Ames Public Library

 Ames, Iowa – To mark World Collage Day, a hands-on collage event will be offered Sat., May 10, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ames Public Library in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium, 515 Douglas Ave., Ames, IA. This event, suitable for ages 14 and up, is free but advanced registration is required to ensure your spot. Visit the APL calendar for the registration link, or call the adult services desk at 515-239-5646, ext. 4. 
 
Collage is the artistic technique of creating a composition by cutting and pasting together various unrelated paper images and materials into new whole. The day will begin with a short presentation from local artists about the various styles of collage. Attendees can then use a wide array of provided materials to create their own artwork to bring home. The artists, Bob Anders, Deb Anders-Bond, Kathy Svec, and Susan Norris will be available to offer advice and assistance. No experience necessary for what will be a leisurely day of crafting, creating, and experimenting. 
 
Participants should bring a sack lunch and a pair of good scissors. Water, coffee, and snacks will be provided. Parking is available on the street or in the city lot north of the library.
 
This event is sponsored by Ames Community Arts Council, Ames Public Library, and local ACAC artist members. For more information, email Bob Anders and Deb Anders-Bond or visit the Arts Council website.