History
The Art Center Association of Sioux City was first incorporated in 1914 as the Sioux City Society of Fine Arts. From its inception to the opening of the Sioux City Art Center in 1938, the Society sponsored art classes and exhibitions. Classes were held in various community buildings, as well as in Grandview Park during the summer months. Exhibitions were displayed at the Sioux City Public Library and the Woodbury County Court House. In 1937, the Art Center Association of Sioux City along with the Sioux City Junior League and other community supporters petitioned the United States Government to establish a W.P.A. Art Center in Sioux City. It opened in 1938 and has operated continuously since then. The current facility opened in 1997.
Specialties
The Sioux City Art Center specializes in artists of the upper midwest, with a special emphasis on artists in Siouxland. A Permanent Collection gallery maintains a constant display of works owned by the Art Center, while several additional galleries rotate every few months. A hands-on gallery for children and families is located on the first floor. Classrooms are home to art classes for children and adults, taught throughout the year. Art Center's ArtSplash, an annual outdoor festival of art and music, is held each Labor Day Weekend. Admission to the Art Center is free (with the exception of occasional fund raising events and Blockbuster exhibitions).