New Art App Launches Today

Otocast will feature artist voiceovers, videos, and dynamic photography

(Council Bluffs, Iowa) Residents and tourists alike seeking to learn more about art in the Council Bluffs community can now do so using an app on their smartphones. Otocast, an audio guide, is available to download for free. Currently, it features artists’ commentary, videos, scenic photography, and the opportunity to order free educational posters of the Iowa West Public Art collection, with future plans calling for the addition of more works of art.

“Council Bluffs is home to a diverse collection of art, from historic pieces to park signs to large-scale sculptures,” said Pete Tulipana, President and CEO of the Iowa West Foundation. “This app has the capability to feature them all so that locals and visitors can learn about all the cultural assets our city has to offer.”

Otocast is GPS activated so those downloading and using it in the area will have the option of choosing pieces located in the historic downtown, Loess Hills, Riverfront and Mid-America Center area. A much more interactive experience, the app replaces Iowa West’s former cell phone tour. Signage near the public art installations, as well as brochures, are being updated to reflect the change.

“Council Bluffs’ public art is an incredible asset for the community,” said Mark Eckman, Executive Director of the Council Bluffs Convention & Visitors Bureau. “While it adds to the quality of life of area residents, it also serves as a huge draw for visitors. The Otocast app will enrich the experience of seeing the art by supplying the all-important backstory of each piece and its artist.”

About the Iowa West Foundation

The Iowa West Foundation is one of the largest private foundations in the Midwest. It has distributed more than $425 million in grants and initiatives to nonprofits and governmental agencies through southwest Iowa and eastern Nebraska since the inception of its grant program in 1996. Funding for the grants comes from investment earnings and the Iowa West Racing Association, which receives contractual fees from casino operators, Ameristar and Harrah’s. IWRA is the license sponsor for Ameristar and Harrah’s and the license holder for Horseshoe-Bluffs Run.

About the Council Bluffs Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Council Bluffs CVB serves as a catalyst to grow the county’s visitor economy through collaborative sales and marketing, destination advocacy and sustainable placemaking activities in order to enhance the region’s quality of life.

For more information, visit www.unleashcb.com