All contemporary art museums to visit in Iowa

Experience the cutting-edge world of contemporary art at 9 museums in Iowa. These museums showcase works by modern artists, exploring current themes and innovative techniques.

Are you a fan of contemporary art? These are the best contemporary art museums in Iowa:

  1. Figge Art Museum1

    Figge Art Museum

     Davenport, IA
    The Figge Art Museum, situated in Davenport, Iowa, United States, is a renowned art museum that opened its doors to the public on August 6, 2005. It replaced the Davenport Museum of Art, which was established in 1925 as the first museum in Davenport. The museum is named after the V.O. and Elizabeth Kahl Figge Foundation, which contributed $13.25 million to the total cost of $46.9 million.
  2. Des Moines Art Center2

    Des Moines Art Center

     Des Moines, IA
    The Des Moines Art Center, established in 1948, is an art museum located in Des Moines, Iowa. It boasts an extensive collection of various art forms including paintings, sculptures, modern art, and mixed media. This diverse collection offers visitors a comprehensive view of different art styles and periods.
  3. Pappajohn Sculpture Park3

    Pappajohn Sculpture Park

     Des Moines, IA
    The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, located within Western Gateway Park in Des Moines, Iowa, spans 4.4 acres. The park, which opened in 2009, initially featured 24 sculptures, but has since added four more to its collection.
  4. Bucksbaum Center for the Arts4

    Bucksbaum Center for the Arts

     Grinnell, IA
    The Bucksbaum Center for the Arts is an integral part of Grinnell College, situated in the city of Grinnell, Iowa. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area, offering a unique blend of academic and artistic experiences.
  5. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art5

    Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

     Cedar Rapids, IA
    The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, located in the heart of downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a privately owned institution that was established in 1905. This museum is a significant part of the city's cultural landscape, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of art collections and exhibitions.
  6. Charles H Macnider Museum6

    Charles H Macnider Museum

     Mason City, IA
    The Charles H. MacNider Art Museum, also known as the MacNider Art Museum, is a significant cultural institution in Mason City, Iowa. The museum was first conceived in 1964 and officially opened its doors to the public in 1966. It has since been a hub for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, offering a unique insight into American art.
  7. 7

    Stanley Museum of Art - The University of Iowa

     Iowa City, IA
    The University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art is a renowned visual arts institution located in Iowa City, Iowa. It is part of the University of Iowa and is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The museum has a rich history of partnering with the University of Iowa School of Art and Art History in teaching programs and research projects. It has also sponsored the annual MFA show and faculty exhibitions for several decades.
  8. 8

    University of Northern Iowa Gallery of Art

     Cedar Falls, IA
    The University of Northern Iowa Gallery of Art is situated in the Kamerick Art Building on West 27th Street in Cedar Falls. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich collection of art housed within the university's premises.
  9. 9

    Sioux City Art Center

     Sioux City, IA
    The Sioux City Art Center's permanent collection, which began in 1938 as part of the WPA grant, primarily focuses on artists from Iowa and the greater Midwest. The collection also includes a smaller selection of work by national and international artists, offering visitors a diverse range of art to explore.