Dear Friends, 

I used to think that in order to make art, life had to be going pretty bad, or at least there needed to be some kind of emotional stressor to get me into the creative flow. I have noticed over the last couple of years that artists from larger cities often arrive in Mendocino with this same energy and mindset. 

“Wow, it's absolutely gorgeous here! But…I could never live here.” 

A few days go by, and then “Oh, I get it.” 

This reaction is understandable given the challenges of the modern art world; an unstable market and dwindling resources create a sense of profound uncertainty for creators. Despite these pressures, the true power of art remains in the resilience of artists and institutions that carry on their mission despite such obstacles—a perseverance that serves as a roadmap for leading our communities toward a more flourishing and enduring tomorrow.

Having been at the helm of the Mendocino Art Center for over two years now, I have immense gratitude for what we have been able to achieve in a short amount of time. I am grateful for every artist that has come to stay with us, share their knowledge and show us the myriad of ways WE as a society can coexist. My gratitude extends to the donors who have enabled our evolution into a more inclusive and intergenerational space, and to our brilliant staff and board members for their commitment to the arts as a pathway forward to a more just and equitable future. 

Our Summer fundraiser last year centered on the theme of reciprocity. How does art give back to a community and place that holds space for it? Since then, we have actively invested in that relationship: expanding our class offerings and residency programs, installing an ADA-compliant bathroom, hiring new staff, and replacing a studio roof as part of our ongoing campus upgrades. Building on last year's foundation of reciprocity, we are shifting our focus this year toward Cultivating Abundance.

When we invest in our creativity community, we cultivate abundance that enriches our entire community. Today, we invite you to plant the seeds for our next season of growth. To truly flourish, an artistic ecosystem requires deep roots, fertile ground, and dedicated caretakers. 

Your support acts as the vital water and sunlight for our growth. Please click here to contribute your gift today and help our community continue to bloom.

With Love,

Dav Bell, Executive Director, Mendocino Art Center