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, "Artists Workshops for Kids" for school-aged children and teens, and classes and workshops 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. Registrations cover the cost of supplies and the instructor's fees.
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. A Spanish and English class is now offered on select Tuesday afternoons at 3:30 p.m. Registration is currently required. Free class.
Artists Workshops for Kids:
Julie Lear ("Miss Julie"), teaches workshops each month on a Saturday at 1:30 p.m. for kids ages 7-14. Past projects include Maurice Sendak monster masks, Alexander Calder mobiles, Andy Warhol neon prints, and Chinese New Year activities, and more.
Heather Seibel ("Miss Heather"), teaches workshops each month on Saturdays at 1:30 p.m., or Thursdays at 5:15 p.m., for kids ages 9 and up. Past projects include clay coil pots and clay bobbleheads, woven animals, drawing Zentangles, and more.
Brianna Rivers ("Miss Brianna"), teaches workshops each month on Saturdays or Sundays at 1:30 p.m., or Thursdays at 5:15 p.m. for kids ages 10 and up. Past projects include K-Pop Demon Hunter portraits, DIY fashion crafts, and more.
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.
Artist Vada Baker teaches "Red Barn Studio" classes on select Sunday afternoons, where adult students learn techniques such as painting with watercolors or acrylics. The fee is $20 or $17.50 for members of Friends of the Muscatine Art Center. All supplies are provided.
Artist and Pleasant Valley art teacher Heather Siebel leads classes and workshops for kids and adults on Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons. Adults can learn various art forms such as working with clay, bookbinding, and more. Class fees vary depending on the activity. All supplies are provided.
Artist Brianna Rivers also teaches classes and workshops for both kids and adults on Thursday nights and Saturday or Sunday afternoons. Adult students paint with acrylic and explore other mediums as well. Class fees can vary depending on the activity, and all supplies are provided.
Other instructors include local artists, and workshops are typically longer. 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.
