Octagonal: The All-Media Show is the annual, juried all-media exhibition at the Octagon Center for the Arts in Ames, IA. This year's exhibit runs through March 14 and includes a reception on Thurs., Jan. 22.

Children of all ages and their grown-ups are invited to this storytime to build listening, language, and literacy skills through music, movement, song and action rhymes. Each week will feature a new theme.

America 250: Prairie, Plows, and the People’s College will honor the key people, moments and experiences that have been centered within the Farm House Museum, campus’ first building. This exhibition will explore America’s 250th through 250 primary source objects from honoring the land of the original Indigenous people to the plowing of the prairie, campus development and the fostering of generations of democratic and innovative citizens.

Learn and practice brush control, general principles, techniques and tricks using watercolors. Students will learn to simulate texture and patterns resulting from combining and layering or glazing their paints. Basic skills in the use of transparent watercolors, design principles including composition, and how to decide what to keep or eliminate in your art will be covered.

Bring your pre-walker to the Library for stories, songs, and baby sign language. Join with other caregivers and older siblings for 20 minutes of fun and learning. Feel free to bring a stuffed animal or doll for the older sibling to learn along with you. 

Come play chess! Whether you are just a beginner or already an expert, all kids in grades 1-5 are welcome to come have fun. Drop in and learn how to play or make new friends with other chess lovers.

Students will explore the art of painting portraits.  Students have the choice to paint from a photo, or paint a self-portrait by using a mirror. Students will learn to explore color, likeness, and the many ways of depicting a person on canvas.
Oil paint focused, but other media are also welcome. All skill levels are welcome!

Gather (in person or online) for casual conversations in Spanish. Chat in your native language or get comfortable speaking in another language.

Enjoy creative learning through the art making process using a variety of sensory materials, traditional and nontraditional supplies. New skills will be practiced, while the “process of making” will be the fundamental goal for the child. Materials like paint, charcoal, fabric, plastic, sculpture media, glue, cardboard, paper, etc. will be used. The use of scissors and proper handling of materials and color mixing will also be explored. Guardians are encouraged to participate in class activities.