​Welcome to the Ames Community Arts Council

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Join us Saturday, Nov. 15, 5:30–8 p.m. at Collegiate United Methodist Church (Ames) for a soup supper served in handcrafted bowls you’ll take home. Proceeds support Backpack Buddies, SHOP, and HOPE Pantry—programs fighting student food insecurity. Learn more HERE.

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

2025 Empty Bowls | Sat., Nov. 15 | 5:30 - 8 p.m.
-- Click HERE to Learn More --
We’re thrilled to host the second annual Empty Bowls fundraiser, happening Sat., Nov. 15, at the Collegiate United Methodist Church and Wesley Foundation (2622 Lincoln Way, Ames). Between 5:30 and 8 p.m., come enjoy a delicious soup supper with fresh bread and homemade desserts—all served in a handcrafted bowl made by a local artist. Each guest keeps their bowl as a reminder of the empty bowls in our community and beyond.


Why It Matters
This year’s event supports three incredible programs addressing student food insecurity:
  • Backpack Buddies serves students in the Gilbert CSD who may need supplemental meals throughout the school year, as well as during summer weekends. Learn more HERE.
  • SHOP (Students Helping Our Peers) is a food pantry for Iowa State students with a mission to engage with anti-hunger advocates and serve the student population by increasing hunger awareness and food security. Learn more HERE.
  • HOPE Pantry serves Ames Community School District families struggling with food insecurity. Families can access any of the pantries two times per month (excluding emergency situations). Learn more HERE.
🎟️ Ticket Info
  • $30 – Cash/check in advance
  • $35 – Online via credit card
  • $40 – At the door (if available)
Where to Buy
Cash/check tickets available at:
  • Collegiate United Methodist Church (Ames)
  • Octagon Center for the Arts (Ames)
  • Gilbert Lutheran Church (Gilbert)
  • The Vault (Gilbert)
Check the event page for details.

About Empty Bowls
Empty Bowls is a global grassroots movement that brings together artists and communities to fight hunger. Local artists donate bowls, and guests enjoy a simple meal—keeping their bowl as a symbol of compassion and awareness. We are also grateful for donations from area restaurants and grocery stores.

With Gratitude
This event is made possible in partnership with the Ames Community Arts Council, the Octagon Center for the Arts, The ISU Memorial Union Workspace, and the Creative Artists’ Studios of Ames. Special thanks to those locations making physical tickets available, and to the Ames Community Theater (ACTORS) for being our electronic ticket outlet. This project is funded in part by the City of Ames Commission on the Arts (COTA).