Ah, Iowa! Home to rolling cornfields, ribbons of winding roads that stretch into eternity, and that certain je ne sais quoi you've been craving in your search for a sublime artistic soiree. It's high time we journey deep into the heart of America's heartland and bask in its unparalleled beauty. For within this bucolic paradise lies a treasure trove of cultural gems awaiting intrepid travelers like yourself.
Let us begin our pilgrimage as autumn rustles through Des Moines' golden foliage (Des Moines, IA 50309). Pay homage at The Salisbury House & Gardens (4025 Tonawanda Drive), an enchanting architectural marvel built during the Roaring Twenties by cosmetic tycoon Carl Weeks. This Tudorstyle mansion is adorned with intricate wood carvings and woven tapestries reminiscent of English grandeur. Observe how these relics whisper secrets from eras past while strolling along hallways lined with fine arta testament to both their enduring legacy and Iowas affinity for genuine craftsmanship.
Next on our itinerary is Cedar Rapids (Cedar Rapids, IA 52401) home to Grant Wood Studio where our beloved American Gothic was born. Enter this sanctum sanctorum nestled amidst picturesque landscapes capable of inspiring even the most jaded soul (810 2nd Avenue SE). Here you'll discover not only Wood's iconic pieces but also his lesserknown murals depicting rural idyllsthe epitome of Iowas hardworking spirit imbued with dreamlike elegance.
Dive deeper into local traditions by attending oneofakind performances at Englert Theatre (221 E Washington St.) in vibrant downtown Iowa City a bastion for literary geniuses for over a century now! Imagine Whitman or Keats nodding approvingly as contemporary poets commandeer the stage under vintage chandeliers. Ballet enthusiasts will find their heart's desire at the University of Iowas Space/Place (20 Davenport St.), where aspiring choreographers showcase mesmerizing works that redefine gravity.
Now, if its visual arts you seek, then the Figge Art Museum in Davenport is your sanctuary (225 W 2nd St.). Housed within a steelandglass temple designed by deconstructivist master David Chipperfield, this cathedral to creativity features vast collections ranging from European masters to cuttingedge contemporary artists. Dont be surprised if Monet communes with you as you wander through sundrenched galleries overlooking the Mississippi River!
To complete our journey through this midwestern Elysium, let us pay homage to its avantgarde spiritwhere innovation dissolves barriers between mediums and genres! Venture into Des Moines Social Club (900 Mulberry St.) an eclectic haven for local creatives transforming a historic firehouse into a playground brimming with vibrant murals and impromptu jazz performances. Here we celebrate community engagement as catalysts for artistic alchemy.
As our exploration comes full circle, revel in these unforgettable artistic encounters scattered amidst Iowa's pastoral landscapes and smalltown charman unassuming symphony of cultural riches awaiting those who dare venture offthebeatenpath.
Websites:
1. Salisbury House & Gardens: https://salisburyhouse.org/
2. Grant Wood Studio: https://www.crma.org/content/grantwood.aspx
3. Englert Theatre: https://englert.org/
4. University of Iowa Space/Place Theatre: https://dance.uiowa.edu/facilities/spaceplace
5. Figge Art Museum: https://figgeartmuseum.org/
Twitter Handles:
3) @englert
4) @UIowaDance
Des Moines, IA 50309
United States
4025 Tonawanda Drive
IA
United States
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
United States
810 2Nd Avenue
Se, IA
United States
221 E Washington St.
IA
United States
20 Davenport St.
IA
United States
225 W 2Nd St.
IA
United States
900 Mulberry St.
IA
United States
