Mainframe Studios

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900 Keosauqua Way
Des Moines, IA 50309

Mainframe Studios, located in Downtown Des Moines, is the nation’s largest nonprofit building dedicated to providing creative workspaces. This vibrant hub for artistic expression offers a diverse array of disciplines, housing over 220 artists in 180 unique studios. Visitors are welcomed to explore the gallery spaces and witness the creative process firsthand within the artists’ studios.

Mainframe Studios is not just a space for individual creatives; it is a transformative force within Central Iowa's art scene. With a focus on promoting accessibility and diversity, Mainframe Studios supports artists across 30 different disciplines, ranging from traditional mediums like painting and sculpture to emerging fields like game development and AI. The studio boasts nearly 100% occupancy and attracts an average of 11,250 monthly visitors, reflecting its integral role in the local arts community.

By offering open studio events, artist-led workshops, and public gatherings like the popular First Friday celebrations, Mainframe Studios fosters a dynamic arts ecosystem in Iowa. As a financially self-sustaining nonprofit organization, Mainframe Studios is dedicated to providing affordable workspaces that advance equity and opportunities in the arts, positioning itself as a cornerstone of creativity in Des Moines.

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Reviews

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5.015 reviews
Photo of Jeremiah T.
Jeremiah T.
8/22/2025

Such a cool venue full of artists. Their First Friday events (the first Friday of each month) are so much fun and pretty cool.

Photo of Kris S.
Kris S.
3/21/2025

very fun outing. lots of little art studios. food vendor and little bars to quench your thirst and solve your hunger problems. several floors of different types of art. parking was limited. free...

Photo of Heidi H.
Heidi H.
7/20/2022

What a great place. There is such creative energy throughout. They offer First Fridays, where numerous artist open their studios. You can wander in and out of them and ask the artist questions...

Photo of Eric B.
Eric B.
3/3/2019

Mainframe Studios hit my radar screen when my favorite glass artist (Jesse Bogenrief) closed up his Spencer shop and moved into his spacious Lower Level studio just in time for this building's...

Photo of Patrick T.
Patrick T.
2/3/2018

Wow, when things make our community more vibrant, beautiful, and exciting... I get really happy! Mainframe Studios makes me very happy! Mainframe is a new nonprofit model for permanent...

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