American Enterprise Group Invites Public to Tour Renovated Mid-Century Modern Headquarters and Art Collection
American Enterprise Group, Inc. (AEG) is showcasing its newly renovated mid-century modern building and extensive contemporary art collection with a public open house. The event is scheduled for Sunday, August 9 from 1 to 4 p.m. The building and art park is located in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) at 601 Sixth Ave. Art docents and informational handouts will be available.
The eight-story American Enterprise headquarters is designed by renowned American architect Gordon Bunshaft, a leading proponent of modern design in the mid-twentieth century. The building, completed 50 years ago, has been nominated for international architectural significance and is in the final stage of being added to the National Register of Historic Places. The federal designation will signify national recognition of the building’s historic and architectural significance.
“This national nomination recognition affirms our commitment to preserving this building. We look forward to proudly showcasing the renovation to the community as a part of the building’s 50-year anniversary celebration,” said AEG Executive Chairman Mike Abbott. “It is the first time in nearly 20 years that the building and the art collection that graces its floors are open to the general public.”
The building and the adjacent sculpture art park is home to the company’s large contemporary art collection. The art collection started in the 1960s as a way to enliven the building’s simplistic modern design and to inspire an innovative work environment. The open house event allows the
public access to specific floors of the renovated building and to the majority of the newly reinstalled art collection of nearly 400 pieces by Andy Warhol, Claus Oldenberg, Michael Pavlosky, Frank Gardner, Arnaldo Pomodoro, Ivan Chermayeff, Peter Chinni, Jack Youngerman, John Salt, Jean Arp, among others.
The adjacent American Enterprise Group Art Park includes green space with eleven installed sculptures, benches, trees and landscaping. The Art Park is open to the public year-round to enhance the downtown area by providing a quiet natural space for the community.
All inquiries should be directed to Brenda Klocke at (515) 245-2210 or brenda.klocke@americanenterprise.com.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,100 Regional Business Members and more than 320 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.