IAC Special Projects & Initiatives Callout
The Iowa Arts Council works with statewide partners to carry out special projects and initiatives that enhance its mission to cultivate creativity, learning and participation in the arts and recognize Iowans who have made outstanding contributions to arts and culture in Iowa.
Exhibition Opportunities
America250 Statewide Art Contest and Exhibit
As our country and state prepare to commemorate America's 250th anniversary in 2026, Iowans of all ages are invited to take part in this historic milestone by contributing their creative expression and artistic talent to a statewide art contest. Artworks in the student and adult division will be displayed in an exhibition at the Iowa State Fair, August 13-23, 2026.
A statewide call for entries will open in fall 2025.
Annals of Iowa Cover Art
The Annals of Iowa regularly seeks submissions from Iowa artists for artwork to be published on the covers of the state's historical journal. The program was launched with support from the Iowa Arts Council and is managed by the State Historical Society of Iowa. Learn more about the Annals of Iowa Cover Art Program.
Art at the Capitol
The Iowa Arts Council has organized exhibitions of artworks by Iowa artists in the Office of the Governor and in the State Law Library at the Iowa Capitol.
Future opportunities will be listed here.
The Governor’s Arts Awards are a longstanding tradition recognizing Iowans who have made an outstanding contribution to the vitality of the arts in Iowa.
Arts & Culture Initiatives
The Iowa Poet Laureate is an honorary appointment by the Governor of Iowa intended to recognize the importance of poetry in Iowans’ everyday lives.
Arts & Culture Initiatives
The Iowa Scholarship for the Arts supports the development of outstanding high school seniors who excel in the arts and are pursuing a career in the arts.
Arts & Culture Programs
Arts & Culture Initiatives
Poetry Out Loud in Iowa is an arts education program that encourages 9th-12th grade students to study great poetry and compete in a recitation competition.
Arts & Culture Initiatives
