Where art meets culture in downtown Des Moines
When I drive downtown Des Moines, I often notice a very colorful building to the south of the freeway on Keo Way. The vibrant shades of red, blue, gray, yellow, brown, coral, and white are painted in an eye-catching modern design. I have seen this multi-level building numerous times but had no idea it was an art lover’s paradise.
Mainframe Studios was founded in 2017 by Justin Mandelbaum of Mandelbaum Properties as a nonprofit organization beginning with the first floor of studios. All five floors have been fully renovated, and studios, showrooms, and retail spaces have been housed for 220 artists who create over 30 different forms of art.
There are many events held at Mainframe Studios throughout the year, but undoubtedly, one of the most popular is their First Friday open studio event. The first Friday of each month is dedicated to touring the studios of 180 artists and special exhibitions, plus enjoying food, cocktails, and live music from 5 to 8 pm. This themed event is for all ages, free and open to the public. It attracts over 1000 guests each month. Visitors can meet the artists and see some of them at work in their studios with live demos. Artwork and merchandise are available for purchase, along with food and drinks.
Last night, I had the pleasure of visiting Mainframe Studios for the first time for the open studio event. January First Friday was the first-ever collaboration with Iowa Asian Alliance, celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures with live performances, a DJ, vendors, cultural food and drinks, plus a traditional fashion exhibit. Several cultural communities from around Iowa were in attendance. “We were honored to be invited to collaborate with Mainframe Studios,” said Nu Huynh, Executive Director of Iowa Asian Alliance. “It’s important for Asians and Pacific Islanders in the area to be present in public places, especially a cool space like Mainframe Studios. Many of our community members have never been to or heard of it. We are proud to share our cultures with the community. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
As I wandered from floor to floor, I was immersed in art and culture. I saw artists working in their studios and the steps they took along the way. I loved seeing the intricacies of each studio - the drawing tables, easels, paint brushes, saws, pencils, and wood shavings. For the first time, I saw glass being blown after heating in a 2000-degree oven. Throughout the evening, I chatted with local artists, made connections, and thoroughly enjoyed my surroundings. Iowa Asian Alliance set up tables with various exhibits and merchandise to purchase, along with cultural displays and entertainment. The main areas near the elevators were places to gather and enjoy a drink or something to eat. Exploring the studios was like an adventure. Each floor boasted a different array of artists and mediums, and each hallway was a path to exploring another studio. There is so much to see; I need to return soon. The studio spaces are ever-changing with new and fresh inspiration.
If you are near downtown Des Moines, look for Mainframe Studios at 900 Keo Way. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the first Friday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m. The nation’s largest nonprofit building for creative workspaces is a must-see.
Thanks for this update, Jane. I had lost touch with what was going on here since it opened!
I always forget to do first Fridays! Thanks for the reminder. I should set an alert. Mainframe is such a cool space.