WHAT IS MACA

MACA is short for McDowell Arts Council Association. We are an independent nonprofit, founded by 52 community members in 1972, right here in McDowell County. Originally named McDowell Arts And Crafts Association, we became a partner of the statewide network of arts councils to better serve our communities. 

50 years later we exist to promote and preserve cultural life in McDowell County, NC. 

WHAT IS AN ART COUNCIL?

The North Carolina Arts Council is an agency of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. MACA is a member of this state-wide network of resources, grants, and county partners. Arts Councils vary by county and no two look the same, but we all share the same core values: the arts are essential to the growth and well-being of our communities.

OUR VALUES 

• ​The arts are for all people
• To provide resources for arts development that are fair, transparent and accountable.
• Helping our youth succeed through creative approaches to education in and beyond the classroom
• Undertaking local initiatives to enhance our economy, education, and the well-being of our community
• Work to ensure that meaningful arts experiences are accessible to all McDowell County residents including people with disabilities, caregivers, and aging adults ​​​​

Susan Pyatt-Baker
Executive Director
mcdowellarts@gmail.com
828-652-8610

Anna Branam
Assistant Director
mcdowellarts@gmail.com
828-652-8610 

Biscuit the Cat
Official Greeter, head of security

MACA Board of Directors

Treavor Gouge
President
Lece Rose Mainer
Vice President
Phyllis Mckesson
Secretary
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Andy Ferguson
Pam Forshey
Maria Preswood
Harriet Rockett
Megan Mace