ARTSwork Launches The Invitational Art Fair

(Des Moines, Iowa) – ARTSwork, the sister organization of the Des Moines Arts Festival, announces today the launch of a new community event, The Invitational Art Fair, taking place November 6-7, 2026, at the historic Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines, Iowa.

 

The two-day event will feature 50 professional visual artists from Iowa, showcasing and selling their newest original works across a wide range of artistic mediums, including ceramics, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, metalwork, mixed media, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. In addition to fine art, guests will enjoy live music, food, and beverages throughout the event.

 

The Invitational Art Fair will begin on Friday, November 6, with an exclusive VIP Showcase, accessible by invitation only. Invitations will primarily be distributed through participating artists, providing their collectors, supporters, and networks with the first opportunity to view and purchase newly released artwork before the public opening.

 

The event will be open to the public on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Advance tickets are $5 and may be purchased online. Tickets will be $8 at the door. Tickets are available now at www.theinvitational.org.

 

An online artist gallery featuring participating artists is currently available at www.theinvitational.org.

 

“Central Iowa offers an abundance of fall craft shows, but relatively few opportunities for professional visual artists to exhibit and sell their work during the fall season,” said Stephen King, Executive Director of ARTSwork and the Des Moines Arts Festival, “The Invitational was created to fill that gap — providing artists with a high-quality, curated marketplace for art enthusiasts.”

 

The Invitational Art Fair is supported by Prairie Meadows, VolunteerLocal, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and GuideOne Insurance.

 

For more information, to purchase tickets, or to view the artist gallery, visit www.theinvitational.org