Charmed Copper Charms TUESDAY, APRIL 9 6 - 9 pm $35 Learn how to make some charms, dangles or other fun adornments and come away with a fun new necklace. Learn about metalsmithing and the some of the techniques artists use to create their work. Instructor: Terrie Hoefer Adams Studio Class Limit: 12
Artistry in Cold Process Soapmaking Saturday, April 27 1 – 4:30 pm $60 This workshop will focus on the artistry possible in cold process soapmaking. Using the masterbatch process of soapmaking we will explore color, additives and many design techniques such as swirling, layers, embeds, and texture. You will make three different designs to take […]
Exploring Art, ages: 18 months – younger 3’s Tuesdays, 9:15 - 10am $55 for each 4 week session below: January 8 - 29 February 19 – March 12 April 2 – 23 May 7 - 28 Children and their adult partner will explore art together in a relaxed environment. Toddlers will create their own works of art […]
Easy Silver Earrings, 16+ Thursday, May 16 6:30 – 8:30 pm $35 materials included Learn about wire work and make your own earrings. Learn about metals, wire, gauges, tools, and also learn about gemstones, wrapped eye loops and how to make head pins, bead links and dangles. Each participant will be able to create one pair of […]
Hands on Harps, ages 16+ 2 dates available: May 18, 10:00-11:30 or August 24, 10:00-11:30 $40/class Learn more about the harp and try out different sizes of folk harps. Participants will have the opportunity to learn to play simple melodies and chords, in unison and in rounds. The harp is a very beginner friendly instrument […]
Make Your Own Mugs, ages 16+ Tuesdays, 6 – 9 pm May 28 – June 11 (3 weeks) $85 All skill levels: Beginners will learn basic wheel throwing techniques to create mugs, and learn the fundamentals of wedging clay and glazing. Intermediate and advanced students will be guided to continue and practice their artistic pursuits. […]
Maker Night: Mosaics, ages 21+ Thursday, May 30 6:30 – 9 pm $50 Bring a friend, snacks and a beverage of your choice and get creative with glass mosaics. Each student will learn basics of designing and laying down glass on backing. Pieces will be grouted by the Octagon staff and ready for pick up […]
Drawing Workshop, ages 16+ June 24 – 27 1:30 – 3 pm Use pencil and/ or pen to learn classic drawing techniques as a foundation for all 2 dimensional art work. Perspective, value, composition, and proportion will all be practiced. All levels of experience are welcome. Instructor: Rebecca Erickson North Studio $110 Students should bring the following […]
Handbuilding with Clay, ages 16+ Thursdays, 6 – 9 pm July 11 – 25 (3 weeks) $120 Learn key handbuilding techniques including pinch, coil and slab construction, plus surface decoration and glazing. Instructor provides individual guidance for all levels of experience with special attention to newcomers. Experienced potters may pursue independent projects. Instructor: Jasmine Beul […]
Caricature Ages: 13 years old and up Day/Date/Time: Thursday, November 7, 6 – 7:30 pm Cost: $60 Description: Have you ever wondered how caricature artist do what they do? Learn basic techniques of caricature art and that of famous artists in the field. Students will learn how to see their subject through the eyes of […]
About Us
The Octagon Center for the Arts is a non-profit community art center in the heart of downtown Ames, Iowa. A cornerstone of the cultural scene in Ames since 1966, the Octagon serves more than 30,000 people each year through art classes and outreach, rotating exhibits, a retail gallery shop, and the annual Octagon Art Festival.
The Octagon Center for the Arts is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization funded in part through memberships, donations, and grants, including the City of Ames Commission on the Arts (COTA) and the Iowa Arts Council.
© 2025 Octagon Center for the Arts. All rights reserved.
Octagon Center for the Arts
413 & 427 Douglas Avenue
Ames, IA 50010
Phone: 515-232-5331
Email: info@octagonarts.org
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Octagon Shop and Community Gallery
Monday-Wednesday 10:00am-5:30pm
Thursday 10:00am-7:00pm
Friday 10:00am-5:30pm
Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm
Sunday CLOSED (except during the holidays)
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