GALLERY MISSION
The mission of the Polk County Heritage Gallery is to provide a multi-use exhibition space for artistic and historical exhibits; to provide a unique facility contributing to the cultural development of Des Moines and Polk County; and to complement existing educational and cultural institutions.
HISTORY
The Gallery represents a commitment by the people of Polk County to preserve a beautiful example of historic federal architecture, in the Beaux Arts classical style, giving it a new purpose. The building which houses the Polk County Heritage Gallery at 111 Court Avenue was built in 1908 and served as the main post office for the citizens of Des Moines.
In 1975, the building was placed on the National Register of Historical Places; and later that year, Polk County bought the building to use for the county's offices. The north lobby of the building was restored and turned into The Heritage Gallery, an exhibition space for the visual arts. The Gallery's advisory board was formed in 1979 and the first show at the Gallery was held in 1980.
THE GALLERY TODAY
The Gallery is a 501c3 organization and is funded solely through entry fees received from gallery-sponsored competitions, exhibitions, private donations, and contributions made by individuals visiting the gallery.
Funding is provided in part by Bravo of Greater Des Moines and the Polk County Board of Supervisors.
Board of Directors
The Polk County Heritage Gallery Board members are:
John Morrissey, President
Renee McPhee, Treasurer
Jenna Coppola, Secretary
Wendy DeVries, Operations Committee
Zac Lane, Marketing + Communications Chair