April 2024 Newsletter: The Place Where Art Happens!
Spring is upon us and we are taking action by being part of and offering a great number of wonderful activities, events and classes.
As the shift in seasons reminds us, we are part of the cycle of life and paying attention to our environment will be a theme for us as we embrace all that this season brings.
We have been working with the amazing team who envisioned KelpFest! and pulled together a dozen partners to help create North Coast KelpFest! an entire month of engagement with our natural environment, education, art workshops, culinary delights and exhibitions.
We present Art History for Artists where artist can explore the environment in which culture has shaped their experience, and Anyone Can Sketchbook Journal which takes us out into the world around us to see, experience and journal through sketching, this along with Pottery Night Out, which makes us pay attention to the environment of the now, the place in which the wheel, the clay and you are tuned to the task at hand.
This fun spring lineup will be followed by Experimental Urchin Glaze, the dramatic Chasing the Light in Pastels and Sea Urchin Fabric Dyeing, all part of the wonderful months ahead!
We are also excited to announce the "soft opening" of the Gallery Store and the Gallery. The new hours will be on weekends during April, so stop in say hello, meet our new staff and check out "Collections", now in the gallery. Details in this newsletter...
KelpFest! Mendocino Art Center
The North Coast KelpFest!, taking place in Mendocino & Fort Bragg from May 18 to June 16, 2024, offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and explore the vital ecosystems of bull kelp forests.
This festival, by weaving together art shows, science panels, culinary explorations, and film screenings, underscores the beauty and ecological importance of kelp in our marine environments.
Particularly for art enthusiasts and creators, the integration of art classes during the festival will provide an inspiring blend of education and creativity.
Participants will have the chance to engage deeply with the theme, fostering a creative exploration that not only educates but also highlights the importance of conservation efforts.
This convergence of art and environmental science promises a valuable and enriching experience for all attendees, encouraging a profound connection with our natural world through the lens of artistic expression.
MAC Kelp! Art Exhibit + KelpFest! Reception
Save the Date - Saturday, May 18
Time - 4 pm - 7 pm
Location - Mendocino Art Center 45200 Little Lake St.
MAC KelpFest! Art Classes
Limited Space - Sign Up Early
Experimental Urchin Glaze
Leila Al-Hemali
Experimental Urchin Glaze KelpFest! Class is an innovative workshop, led by the talented Leila Al-Hemali.
This unique three-hour session invites artists to explore the creation of distinctive ceramic glazes inspired by the ocean, utilizing urchin tests and spines. This workshop embodies our commitment to marrying artistic creativity with environmental consciousness, providing an enriching, hands-on experience that reflects the natural beauty and ecological challenges of our surrounding marine environments
The workshop includes 3 small bisqued cylinders to glaze with the experimental glazes made during the workshop, and, for an additional fee, firing in a wood/soda kiln at the MAC. You are welcome to bring your own bisque-ware to glaze, being mindful of size.
Leila came to ceramics in 2019 with a background in environmental sciences. When she took her first ceramics class, she had no idea of clay’s ability to seep into one’s every pore, and become a true obsession. As an avid diver, when she learned about the staggering rate of kelp forest loss, Leila had the idea to try to use the urchin bodies as a replacement for commercially mined calcium carbonate. And, to her surprise, it worked!
Date: May 19, 2024 - Sunday
Time: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm - 3 Hours Session
For more details about the class, the instructor and to register, please use the link button below 🫖
Sea Urchin Fabric Dyeing
Margaret Seelie
Sea Urchin Fabric Dyeing with Seelie Studio KelpFest! Class is an inventive workshop led by Margaret Seelie.
This visual workshop teaches natural dye creation from purple sea urchins, incorporating ancient Polynesian practices and chemistry. Participants will create unique salmon pink dyes, applying them to silk items and learning water marbling techniques.
The workshop supports California kelp forest restoration by addressing purple urchin overpopulation. Margaret Seelie, a Bay Area-based artist and writer, brings her passion for natural dyes and connection to nature to this immersive experience.
Margaret Seelie, leading the "Sea Urchin Fabric Dyeing" workshop, is a Bay Area artist passionate about blending creativity and nature. Founder of Seelie Studio and Seawitches zine, she specializes in natural dyes from sources like sea urchins and food waste. Her work is grounded in environmental consciousness.
Date: May 26, 2024 - Sunday
Time: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm - 3 Hours Session
For more details about the class, the instructor and to register, please use the link button below 🧣
MAC April Art Classes
Register Today!
Art History for Artists
Nicolas Collins
Art History for Artists is an enlightening four-part online workshop led by Nicholas Collins, designed to inspire artists through the exploration of historical art themes and practices.
Collins, with a rich background in art history and sculpture, as well as expertise in etching and printmaking, guides participants through discussions on art education history, the balance between technique and novelty, and the significance of often overlooked art periods.
This interactive series, set to take place over four weeks starting April 10, 2024, aims to deepen artists' connections to their heritage and refine their communicative methods in art making.
Date: April 10, 17, 24 & May 1, 2024 - Wednesdays
Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm - 4: 1 Hours Sessions
REGISTER TODAY! April 10th is just around the corner...
For more details about the class, the instructor and to register, please use the link button below ⛬
Friday Night Fun: Pottery Night Out
Join us at the Mendocino Art Center for a fun and creative experience on April 12th, Friday from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm - DROP-INs WELCOME...or Register Online
Our Pottery Night Out event offers you a chance to unwind, socialize, and get your hands on some clay. Whether you're a novice eager to learn wheel throwing or an intermediate looking to refine your skills, this class promises a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Bring your favorite beverage, craft pottery alongside friends, and let your creative spirit flourish. Come on out and create lasting memories and masterpieces!
For more details and to register, use the link button below...see you Friday Night at MAC ✨
Anyone Can Sketchbook Journal
Suzi Long
Anyone Can Sketchbook Journal invites participants to Mendocino Art Center for a creative exploration with Suzi Long.
Aimed at beginners and intermediates, this session teaches the art of sketch journaling, a powerful way to capture and immortalize travel memories beyond photos. Suzi Long, an artist with extensive experience in pastels and watercolors, will share techniques for drawing, perspective, proportion, and fun lettering.
Last month's session of Anyone Can Sketchbook Journal was a resounding success, drawing participants from various backgrounds eager to learn sketch journaling techniques. Attendees discovered the joy of capturing travel memories through art.
Date: April 13, 2024 - Saturday
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm - 3 Hour Session
REGISTER TODAY! April 13th is just around the corner...
For more details about the class, the instructor and to register, please use the link button below ✏️
More in May...
Chasing the Light in Pastels
Bob Rhoades
Chasing the Light in Pastels offers an immersive experience into mastering light and shadow with pastels, under the guidance of Bob Rhoades.
This workshop, suitable for all levels, focuses on the dynamic contrasts and shadow work on dark-toned paper, inspired by the iconic works of Edward Hopper. This class promises a deep dive into pastel techniques that bring scenes to life.
Bob Rhoades is an accomplished artist and educator with extensive experience in pastel techniques. His expertise lies in illuminating compositions with nuanced light effects, aiming to elevate the skills of workshop participants.
Date: May 25 & 26, 2024 - Saturday & Sunday
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm - 2: 4 Hour Sessions + 1 Hour Break at Noon
For more details about the class, the instructor and to register, please use the link button below 🖍️
MAC On Campus Update
On Saturday, April 6 the Gallery Store and the main Gallery now showing "Collections" will reopen. During April the store and gallery will be open regular hours on Saturday and Sunday. We plan to resume full weekday hours soon, as we continue to grow our team and complete our winter improvements.
"Collections", the current show in the gallery, reflects MAC's commitment to fostering art and nurturing a community of artists and art enthusiasts. It includes wonderful pieces from artists like Howard Wheatley Allen, Dorr Bothwell, Jan Stussy, Bill Zacha and many others. It is part of our ongoing fundraiser as is a wonderful opportunity for collectors.
All sales directly benefiting MAC’s mission to be the “Place Art Happens!” in Mendocino by providing essential funds for MAC Programs. Please come by and see the show and bring friends!
Older - The Aging of Men
Steve Siler
Older— The Aging of Men, a workshop intensive with Steve Siler
The workshop is designed to include lectures, discussions, small group activities, introspective processes, a good story or two, and group ritual.
Topics include:
The cultural myth of late adulthood, the new old, - a generational shift, looking at older from a depth perspective, cycling through the stages of our lives, what being older asks of us, an archetypal perspective of the old man, becoming an Elder, reviewing the journey, and balancing the polarities.
Saturday, April 6th & Saturday, April 13th
All day workshops 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
Nichols Gallery - Mendocino Art Center
Questions or to register: Text or email Steve Siler directly
Text: (707) 357-1869 Email: silermfc@mcn.org
MAC Board is Growing
The Mendocino Art Center is thrilled to announce Jordan Boudreau as the newest member of its Board of Directors.
Jordan, a Yale College alumnus with degrees in Environmental Studies & Architecture (2014-2019), brings a wealth of experience in non-profit leadership, community engagement, and environmental education. At the Seymour Marine Discovery Center at UC Santa Cruz, as Associate Director of Community Engagement and Exhibits, Jordan was pivotal in launching new permanent exhibits, establishing a "Climate Action Lab," and initiating sustainable skill-building workshops. Their track record of fostering creative partnerships and expanding organizational impact is noteworthy.
Jordan's commitment to integrating art, architecture, and environmental consciousness aligns perfectly with the Mendocino Art Center's vision. Their personal connection to Mendocino and multifaceted background as a potter, weaver, block printer, and set designer enriches their role on the board, promising to contribute significantly to the Art Center's legacy and future.
If you are interested in joining the Board, helping to shape the future of MAC, and being part of the legacy that will celebrate its 65th year this summer, reach out to us via email boardchair@mendocinoartcenter.org
Support MAC with Donations and Volunteerism
As we continue to celebrate and support the vibrant tapestry of arts within our community, it's crucial to remember that the Mendocino Art Center thrives on the generosity and passion of individuals like you. As a nonprofit organization, MAC relies on donations and the spirit of volunteerism to sustain and expand our programs, events, and initiatives that foster creativity, enrichment, and community wellness.
We have volunteer opportunities for those interested in supporting MAC beyond contributions.
Gallery Assistance
Gift Shop Support
Event Hosting
Docent Tours
Visit our website, using the link below, to complete the volunteer form and we will reach out to connect with you. Please also share this with others who may enjoy being part of campus life and our arts community.
As well, your tax-deductible gifts are instrumental in keeping the arts alive and accessible in Mendocino. We invite you to visit our website and click the "Donate" button to contribute to this ongoing cultural legacy. Additionally, if you're looking to engage more deeply with the arts and our community, consider signing up as a volunteer. Your time, skills, and enthusiasm are invaluable assets that help MAC continue to be a beacon of artistic engagement and education.
Together, through your donations and volunteer efforts, we can ensure that MAC remains a nurturing ground for artists, students, and art enthusiasts for generations to come. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the arts.
