Programs
At the Muscatine Art Center, there is something for everyone! Learn more about lectures, concerts, events, classes and more for adults, kids, and kamilies!
A Place for People of All Ages!
Laura Musser-McColm was a noted vocal musician, and her Music Room has become a popular space for concerts, lectures and special events. The Stanley Gallery Studio bustles with activity from "Mini Masters" for young learners, "Kids' Saturday Workshops" for school-aged children, and "Red Barn Studio Classes" for adults. These are just a few examples of the educational programs presented at the Muscatine Art Center. From local history and fine art to music and community conversations, you are sure to discover something engaging!
Programs at the Muscatine Art Center
The Muscatine Art Center maintains a busy schedule of events, classes, lectures and more. Families seeking fun and educational activities for kids can find a class or event suitable for different age levels and interests. Adults who want to develop their artistic skills, expand their knowledge about art or local history, or simply relax and socialize can choose from a wide range of programs.
The website's program calendar is updated regularly. The program brochure is printed quarterly and can be mailed to your address upon request using the General Inquiry form on the Contact page of this website. To stay up to date, follow the Muscatine Art Center and / or the Friends of the Muscatine Art Center on social media or sign up for the e-newsletter through the Contact page.
If you would like to have more information about classes at the Muscatine Art Center, please call 563-263-8282.
Program Costs
Many events, programs and classes are presented free of charge to participants. Thanks to grants from the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine and Muscatine Charities, registration fees for nearly all children's classes and programs have been waived. Through various sponsorships, many events are offered at low or no cost to participants. Fees for adult studio classes are typically $15 per class or less for members of Friends of the Muscatine Art Center. Registrations cover the cost of supplies and the instructor's fees.
When there is a fee for a child to participate in a class, Friends of the Muscatine Art Center provides scholarships to students who qualify for the free or reduced lunch program through the schools. Children who qualify may enroll in up to two classes each per semester free of charge. If you want to learn more about our scholarship program, please call the Muscatine Art Center at 563-263-8282.
Kids' Classes
Check out these classes for kids - offered weekly or monthly!
Mini Masters: Young learners (ages 2 to 7) enjoy a colorful story and two art projects during this 45 minute class. A new theme is presented each month, and each class is built around a children’s book connected to the theme of the month. Class begins with an introductory art activity followed by the story and a main art project. Children practice skills such as painting, cutting, drawing, gluing and more. Classes meet Wednesday mornings from 9:30 - 10:15 a.m. and Thursday afternoons from 3:30 - 4:15 p.m. Registration is currently required. Free class.
Kids' Saturday Workshops: Julie Lear teaches workshops once each month on a Saturday at 1:30 p.m. Each workshop is customized to school-aged children. Past projects include Maurice Sendak monster masks, Alexander Calder mobiles, Andy Warhol neon prints, Chinese New Year activities, and marzipan animals. Registration 48 hours in advance is required. Free class.
Adult Studio Classes
Adult learners can be found practicing many artistic techniques in the studio on most Thursday evenings and some weekends. Beginners, as well as more experienced artists, are welcome to register for any class from watercolor painting to crafting holiday ornaments.
Red Barn Studio: Artist Vada Baker teaches "Red Barn Studio" classes Sunday afternoons each month. During the 90 minute class, adult students learn techniques such as painting with watercolors or acrylics. New classes are announced each quarter, and registration is required at least 48 hours in advance of the class. The fee is $15 or $13.50 for members of Friends of the Muscatine Art Center. All supplies are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own preferred paintbrushes.
Thursday Night Makerspace: These classes are developed for DIY-ers and those who inspire to be DIY-ers. Program Coordinator Katy gives step-by-step instructions for completing a different craft project each month. Popular projects include garden stepping stones and barn board signs. The cost of all supplies is included in the fee of $15 or $13.50 for members of Friends. Registration is required 48 hours in advance of the class.
Classes taught by Guest Artists: Throughout the year, guest artists teach special classes - often on a Thursday night or on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. Some classes, such as those presented by Living Proof Exhibit, are offered free of charge. Living Proof Exhibit classes are available to anyone touched by cancer (whether as a survivor, a support team member or medical professional). Other classes are presented seasonally, for example, the holiday ornament workshop. Registration is required 48 hours in advance of the class. Information about fees is posted on the information page for each individual class.
