COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA — Pottawattamie Arts, Culture and Entertainment, also known as PACE, opened up their new $27 million building, the Hoff Family Arts and Culture Center, in the middle of the COVID-19 outbreak. While their doors remain closed for now, the center remains active, and hopes to be a place of healing post-COVID-19.
"The building itself, opened, debuted at the onset of COVID. So we only opened for a small amount of time unfortunately. But we're still here," PACE director of programs and galleries, Adam Van Osdel said.
They hope that the center can become a place of healing once COVID-19 passes.
"Art is essential for emotional healing," Adam Van Osdel said.
For now they have some options for art-goers online.
"Some of our teachers have been putting together an art from home series," Adam Van Osdel said.
Until restrictions start loosening in Iowa and Pottawattamie County, the building will remain closed to the public.
"We want to make sure the public stays safe in our galleries. It might be by appointment only early on, and then moving on to whatever is appropriate. But we're going to be here waiting once the public's ready," Adam Van Osdel said.