LeMars Iowa Art Center

Our Vision

The Vision of the Le Mars Arts Council, Inc., is that of a vital, respected and accessible presence in the Le Mars community, offering arts related cultural, social and learning opportunities and experiences to encourage a well-balanced quality of life.

Mission Statement

The MISSION of the Le Mars Arts Council, Inc., is to
engage the mind and inspire the spirit through the arts.

The Le Mars Arts Council, inc. believes:

  1. The arts are an essential part of life.
  2. The arts are a universal language, crossing cultural boundaries.
  3. The arts are for everyone and should be accessible to everyone.
  4. The arts actively involve all participants as artist and/or audience.
  5. The arts build relationships and a sense of community.
  6. The arts serve to enrich the community through education and experience.
  7. The arts provide enjoyment.
  8. The arts contribute to the community's economic well-being.
  9. Quality and diversity are vital to the Le Mars Arts Council's programs.
  10. Advocacy for the arts is an important part of the Le Mars Arts Council's work.
  • We are a nonpartisan agency.
  • We do not provide the community with programs already available.
  • We cannot be all things to all people.
  • We are not an art museum.

Arts Calendar

New Workshop

Internationally known watercolor artist, Mary Ann Beckwith will be teaching her “Brush and Beyond” Workshop at the Le Mars Arts Center - August 7, 8, 9 2013.

For registration information contact lemarsarts@frontiernet.net.

The energy filled days will explore creative methods of watermedia application, including texturing and the building of layers of paint.

Participants will be exposed to new techniques and materials that will allow them to better express their visions and ideas through their paintings. The methods taught and material utilized will be suitable for both representation and abstract imagery.”

For more information about the instructor, visit her web-site at www.maryannbeckwith.com.

Please let us know as soon as possible that you are planning to attend this workshop.

Call for Artists

We are always looking for new artists to exhibit at the Arts Center. Please send samples of your work or a web-site and a letter of introduction. This can be through e-mail, if you prefer.

Did you know...

The Le Mars Arts Center was the original Le Mars Public Library and was built in 1903 with funds from industrialist-financier Andrew Carnegie. The building was dedicated in 1904 housing 3,885 books. The library remained in the Carnegie building until August 1976. Le Mars Public Library is now located in a remodeled Red Owl supermarket purchased by the city in July 1973.

The Arts Center building was placed on the National Historic Register in 1979.

Board of Directors

  • Executive Director: Open
  • President: Terri Schroeder
  • Vice President: Cindy Hanno
  • Treasurer: Becky Wiersma
  • Secretary: Jean Weiner
  • Sharon Dorr
  • Dina Rolling
  • Randi Mackey
  • Open
  • Open

The Le Mars Arts Council is in need of volunteers to fill board seats. The term is three years, rotating three new members each year.

The meetings are held on the second Thursday of the month at 5:15 p.m. at the Arts Center. We will gladly add your name to the potential board member list if you send us bio information and tell us how you can help with our mission to Engage the Mind and Inspire the Spirit through the Arts. More information available upon request.