Our next stop in Le Mars is the Art Center. Housed in the former Carnegie Library, I knew I needed to see the inside of this historic structure when I passed by on my way
Our next stop in Le Mars is the Art Center. Housed in the former Carnegie Library, I knew I needed to see the inside of this historic structure when I passed by on my way to the cupcake tasting at Piece of Cake. So, after getting my sugar high for the day, I stopped in for a quick tour before I headed back to Sioux City.
Historical significance
The Le Mars Carnegie Library was one of just 22 funded by Andrew Carnegie himself in 1903, and since its construction few changes have been made to the exterior. From the granite pillars and brown sandstone, to the large exterior and interior arches, and all the way down to the mosaic landing, the integrity of this Renaissance Revival style structure has been lovingly preserved.
While I was walking around admiring the art, I could hear the original maple hard wood floors creaking beneath my feet, with the echo of my footsteps bouncing off the fifteen-foot ceilings. Beaming through the floor to ceiling windows, sunshine warmed each conference room, allowing visitors to enjoy paintings and sculptures from local Iowa artists in natural sunlight.
Class is in session!
After walking through the main floor, one of the ladies in the gift shop directed me to the basement. Granting me a private tour, she informed me they offer weekly and monthly art classes for youth and adults. Everything from painting canvas to throwing clay, they have something for everyone; and prices range from $5 to $45 depending on which class you select.
Plan your visit
Currently, on the Le Mars Art Center website (https://www.lemarsarts.com/classes–events.html) you can view their Spring 2021 class schedule, and even make plans for a Summer break in the next few months. This would make for an eventful day with your pre-teen son or daughter after being cooped up this past winter.
I know I plan to support this small-town art center throughout this year, and next. With only a half-hour drive from Sioux City, I’ll keep up to day on their events schedule via their website and Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/LeMarsArts).
712-546-7476
200 Central Ave S
Le Mars, Iowa 51031
Hours of Operation:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wed – Fri: 1pm to 5pm
Saturday: 10am to 4pm
Sunday: Closed
