January 2024 Newsletter: Progress and New Beginnings

Mendocino Art Center New Team

Dear Members and Supporters of Mendocino Art Center,

I am thrilled to reach out to you today with some exciting news that marks a significant step in our journey of growth and development at the Mendocino Art Center. As we continue to fulfill our Strategic Plan, we are turning the page to a new chapter in our story, one filled with progress and promise.

Firstly, we are delighted to welcome Erika Island as our new interim Executive Director. Erika, a familiar face to many of you, has been a part of the MAC family for four years, significantly contributing to our exhibitions and the archiving of our valuable art collections. Her deep roots in the Mendocino coast and extensive experience in the arts, including her work as a professional glassblowing artist, position her perfectly to lead us forward. Her commitment to the arts and belief in their transformative power align seamlessly with our mission.

In addition, we are excited to announce two new members joining our Board: Phyllee Binder and Lavender Grace. Phyllee, with her background in education and strong community ties, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our board. Lavender, a multi-talented creator and teacher, enriches our board with her unique insights into the intersection of art and ecology. Both members are deeply committed to fostering inclusiveness and building community through the arts.

We are also happy to share that Seth Charles will continue to support MAC in his new role as Program Manager, focusing on the reinvigoration of our fine art educational programming. This area remains a cornerstone of our mission, and Seth’s expertise will be invaluable in this endeavor.

These changes signify not just a shift in leadership but a reaffirmation of our commitment to the arts and our community. Our strategic plan, that we have been diligently working on, focuses on achieving tangible goals and fostering a community of passionate individuals dedicated to making a significant impact in the world of art and our local community.

We are excited for what the future holds and are grateful for your continued support and engagement. Together, we are making the Mendocino Art Center a vibrant hub of creativity and learning. Thank you for being a part of this journey.

Warm regards,

Debra Lennox

Board Chair, Mendocino Art Center

Please keep in mind that we have a wonderful calendar of winter classes and workshops - visit our website to learn more…