Celebrating the Arts in Council Bluffs, IA
Discover a thriving and vibrant artistic community.
The growing arts scene in Council Bluffs, IA, isn’t just a feature of the area; it’s a testament to the city’s vibrant spirit and dedication to creativity. Over the years, the arts have become a vital part of the community’s makeup, creating jobs, relationships, entertainment and opportunities. Serving as the city’s creative beacons are the Iowa West Foundation; Pottawattamie Arts, Culture and Entertainment (PACE); and the Arts Center at Iowa Western Community College.
Iowa West Foundation
In 2006, Council Bluffs set its sights on revitalizing its cultural landscape, and the Iowa West Foundation emerged as a key component in that effort. The organization was instrumental in transforming the historic International Harvester site into what is now Harvester Artist Lofts. This 36-unit artist-focused apartment building provides 5,320 square feet of space for arts-friendly commercial use.
However, the Iowa West Foundation didn’t stop there. In 2020, the organization embarked on a collaborative effort with PACE to construct the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center, a beautiful architectural gem that houses a state-of-the-art theater.
“The Iowa West Foundation is committed to making Southwest Iowa a place where families love to live and businesses thrive,” says Brenda Mainwaring, president and CEO of the organization. “We want to strengthen communities for current and future generations by supporting programs and projects that enhance financial stability, opportunity, belonging and well-being.”
The Iowa West Foundation is laying the foundation for future artistic growth, as well, thanks to its school outreach initiatives that include engaging field trips and enlightening school visits.
PACE
An evolution of Bluffs Arts Council, PACE embodies the city’s dedication to all things artistic. The nonprofit has worked hard to fortify, cultivate and champion the arts, culture and history throughout the region.
“PACE believes that when our community – young and old – connects with the arts, everyone’s lives are enriched,” says Danna Kehm, CEO of PACE. “We know the arts can help to fuel a community, and together, we’re committed to building a robust cultural environment to make that possible.”
PACE is the driving force behind the much-beloved Hoff Center. Within its walls, patrons find professional theater productions, mesmerizing youth performances, the enchanting melodies of the Kanesville Symphony, and the graceful moves of the American Midwest Ballet. The center also hosts the innovative Kitchen Council, a launchpad for food entrepreneurs, as well as a gallery that proudly showcases rotating exhibits.
First and foremost, PACE is a community-focused organization, which is reflected in the various events and programs it spearheads, such as Hoff Fourth Fridays and Music in the Park, not to mention education-focused efforts like its pottery, photography and painting classes. PACE also helps subsidize five resident artist studios, where artists are encouraged to create and participate in art exhibitions and workshops.
“Council Bluffs is a great place to live as an artist or as an art consumer,” Kehm says. “It is wonderful to see the truly collaborative spirit which exists here.”
The Arts Center at Iowa Western Community College
The Arts Center at Iowa Western Community College is all about providing affordable entertainment for everyone. This center isn’t just for highbrows; it’s a place where the local community can come together to appreciate and support the arts. Since 2001, the Arts Center has focused on bringing professional nationally touring artists and entertainers to the Council Bluffs area. It hosts about eight shows a year that feature widely acclaimed artists and entertainers. And when the spotlight isn’t on the pros, the stage belongs to students who showcase their musical talents and theatrical flair. The theater can hold up to 655 people, and the Arts Center offers flexible subscription packages to make it accessible to all.
“It’s important to have a vibrant performing arts scene,” says Tim Dickmeyer, director of the center. “One major component of that is to have those entertainment offerings locally, easily accessible and affordable – that’s why we do what we do.”
Get to Know Council Bluffs, IA
Want to learn more about living and working in Council Bluffs? Check out the latest edition of Livability Greater Council Bluffs, Iowa.
