JULY EVENTS AT CRESTON ARTS

June 30, 2025. CRESTON, IA — Chalk with Us, artist demonstrations, and workshops at the Creston Arts Center this July.

Chalk with Us

Creston Arts’ Chalk with Us returns for its 12th year on July 3! Join volunteers, youth, and local businesses to adorn Uptown Creston’s “Walk of Chalk” with vibrant, temporary murals. Free chalk, water, pizza, music, and fun — celebrating community and creativity together. To sponsor a chalk mural, visit crestonarts.org/chalk-with-us or email info@crestonarts.org.

Star-Spangled Cyanotypes 

In this beginner-friendly cyanotype class, participants will use light-sensitive paper and found objects to create striking blue-and-white botanical or mixed media prints, then add bold red drawing or stitching for a layered, patriotic twist. No prior experience is necessary. All skill levels and ages are welcome in this class 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, July 4, following the parade. Online registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are welcome! Visit www.crestonarts.org for more info.

Find Your Voice: Performing Poetry & Storytelling with Kelly Maxwell

Writer, professor, and performing arts coach Kelly Maxwell will guide participants through the art of performing poetry and short stories with presence, emotion, and authenticity. Drawing from her experience as a Storyteller learning from the Des Moines Register's award-winning team, and years of coaching and instructional experience, Kelly will show you how to transform written work in to engaging live performance — whether you’re preparing for a reading, an open mic, or simply seeking to connect more deeply with your audience. All skill levels and ages are welcome in this class 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 5. Online registration is free, but required at www.crestonarts.org. 

Raku Pottery with Blake

In this workshop, participants will learn the dramatic firing process that creates unique, unpredictable finishes—smoke, flame, and beauty in every piece. All skill levels and ages are welcome in this class 6 to 8 p.m. July 10. Online registration is required at www.crestonarts.org.

Art Journaling with Becky

In this class, participants will be provided reflective questions to write about in their journals, which they can then embellish with paint, drawings, and collage. Materials will be provided. No prior experience is necessary. All skill levels and ages are welcome in this class 6 to 8 p.m. July 11. Online registration is required at www.crestonarts.org.

Poetry Club

In this workshop, participants read, write, and share original work (if you so choose) inspired by prompts, discussion, and reflection. Whether you're new to poetry or polishing your voice, this social group for poets and creative writers offers a welcoming space to create, connect, and discover what your words can do. All levels of experience are welcome. Poetry Club will take place 6 to 8 p.m. Juy 14. More info is available at www.crestonarts.org. 

Watercolor Workshop

At the watercolor workshop, participants will learn techniques for blending, layering, and creating stunning effects with washes and textures. Ideal for beginners or those wanting to enhance their skills. This time the class will be painting buildings and working on layering. All skill levels and ages are welcome in this class 6 to 8 p.m. July 22. Online registration is required at www.crestonarts.org. 

Artist in Residence Workshops & Demonstrations

Creston Arts will host another Artist in Residence demonstration this month. More information to come soon.

Percussive Maintenance by Patrick Leer

July’s exhibit will consist of bright, lively abstract paintings and mixed media on canvas and paper, painted intuitively in a contemporary expressionist style. Leer’s work is an infusion of energy and optimism. He chooses to combat negativity with vibrant colors and bold strokes on canvas and paper.

An Opening Reception will be held on Friday, July 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided.

About Creston Arts

Creston Arts is a 501(c)3 non-profit that has served the Creston Area since 1977. Our mission is to enrich the lives of Southwest Iowans by bridging the community to the arts through coordination, advancement, promotion, and administration of all phases of the arts in Creston and the surrounding area. For more information, a calendar of upcoming events, or to make a donation to further our mission, visit www.crestonarts.org or call 641-351-7634.

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July Calendar

All Month Percussive Maintenance by Patrick Leer at the Creston Arts Depot Gallery. Gallery Hours: Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. All ages.

July 3 Chalk with Us - Free event. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Creston Arts Center. A free pizza lunch will be provided. All ages.

July 4 Percussive Maintenance by Patrick Leer Opening Reception - 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Creston Arts Depot Gallery. Light refreshments will be available. All ages.

July 4 Star-Spangled Cyanotypes - 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Creston Arts Center. Class is capped at 20 participants. Free will donations are encouraged. All ages. Registration is required at www.crestonarts.org.

July 5 Find Your Voice: Performing Poetry & Storytelling with Kelly Maxwell - 3 - 5 p.m. at the Creston Arts Center. Free will donations are encouraged. All ages. Registration at www.crestonarts.org. 

July 7 Creston Arts Monthly Board Meeting - 5:30 p.m. at the Creston Arts Center. 

July 10 Raku Pottery with Blake -  6 - 8 p.m. at the Creston Arts Center. Class is capped at 15 participants. Free will donations are encouraged. All ages. Online registration is required at www.crestonarts.org.

July 11 Art Journaling with Becky: A Therapeutic Creative Practice  - 6 - 8 p.m. at the Creston Arts Center. Class is capped at 20 participants. Free will donations are encouraged. All ages. Online registration is required at www.crestonarts.org.

July 14  Poetry Workshop - 6 - 8 p.m. at the Creston Arts Center. Class is capped at 20 participants. Ages 15+. Online registration is required at www.crestonarts.org.

July 22 Watercolor Workshop - 6 - 8 p.m. at the Creston Arts Center. Class is capped at 20 participants. All ages. Online registration is required at www.crestonarts.org.