For those of you who may be bored in Des Moines, a great place to go to avoid any further dips into boredom world is the Des Moines Art Center. This year marks the 60th Anniversary for the Center and there are many special events planned in celebration.  One of the features of the Art Center is their feature of some of the best local and national art work, but that is not all.  There is a very good restaurant that was given 5 Stars by the Des Moines Register.  Chefs Lisa Lavalle and Rose Punelli feature a new menu each week that is tailored to the seasonal items for that particular season.  The culinary treasure is a hidden treat that is nestled among the exhibits and art programs, and open for Lunch and Dinner during the week. The Art Center also hosts numerous art classes and programs for the art enthusiast as well as the novice.  There are two locations for the Museum Shop, one on Grand Avenue, and the other Downtown  at 9th and Walnut Streets, in the Wells Fargo Financial Building.  Each shop is packed with books, jewelery, art work, and other a sundry items. Of course The Art Center also has art, duh. They currently have three exhibitions showcasing work by Yan Pei-Ming: Life Souvenir , On Line, and Private Universe. 

One of the most unique items about the Art Center is their approach to enhancing the lives of Young Professionals in the area. The Center has a specific group of young professional art enthusiasts which acts as an affiliate group of the Art Center, called Art Noir.  Art Noir's mission is to engage youth into art programming and work to expand cultural horizons. This group has held some fantastic events in the past, the Big Hair Ball which is done each year, and most recently The Cornell Ball, that was held earlier this month. The events are set up to work along with their mission as well as raise funds for The Art Center.

The younger "me" who thought Des Moines was boring years ago would be very surprised that I am now recommending an Art Center as a place that is not boring. Back then, I wouldn't have been caught dead in an Art Center. But, I guess appreciating the Art Center comes with maturity and wisdom, plus now I know a good thing when I see it.

Next time boredom comes knocking on your door, hop into the car and head on down to the Art Center to check out the exhibits or a art class, you won't be disappointed.

This photo and others were taken by Doug Miller and posted on Bluffton.edu