It’s worth noting that when the Iowa City writer Jennifer Colville was asked for an interview, she suggested conducting it via email instead. “I’m more articulate on paper,” she wrote in a quick note, “but either way is OK.” That’s a humble understatement. During the recent interview, over the phone…

The Iowa Arts Council appreciates media coverage of artists, arts organizations and creative activity across the state. From time to time, we share timely stories on social media as well as this blog. The following excerpt comes from an article Jason Selby wrote for The (Mason City) Globe Gazette, originally…

You’d be wise to stick with the Grinnell artist Joe Tuggle Lacina if you ever stumble off the grid. He is as comfortable at its high-tech center as its primitive edges, as handy with a 3D printer as with a hammer and nails. The tech assistant for Grinnell College’s art…

In a stained-glass studio in Dubuque, the artist Tim Olson is assembling a new body of work — arms, legs, mustache and all. The puzzle pieces form a glowing Gothic portrait of Dan Gable, Iowa’s patron saint of wrestling. The idea came from a fan’s suggestion that Olson initially brushed…

Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg joined the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs in Winterset on Friday, Sept. 30, to unveil a historical plaque marking the boyhood home of George Stout and to declare October as Arts & Humanities Month in Iowa. Stout was born 125 years ago on Oct. 5. He…

When Springboard for the Arts launched more than three decades ago, it was still fairly unusual to invite artists to help with city planning and to enlist their creativity to help communities grow. Today, the St. Paul-based organization delivers training nationwide to help artists and communities do exactly that. Iowans…

Seventy middle and high school students from across Iowa are competing in the National History Day contest online this week, June 12–16, presenting research papers, exhibits, websites, performances and documentaries about a range of historical topics. They’re competing against other state champions from across the country. It’s a rewarding experience…

Communities across Iowa are gearing up this month for Juneteenth, the celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. From Council Bluffs to the Quad Cities, Iowans can participate in a wide range of activities leading up to the holiday on June 19. “Freedom, equality and liberty have…

Over the past few years, Iowa filmmakers have broadened their focus both before and behind the camera. More diverse creators and crews are telling a wider range of stories than ever. To celebrate that progress, Produce Iowa, the state office of film and media production, is hosting a reception called…