Search

Maple Valley Creative Arts Council 

Description

The all-volunteer members of the Maple Valley Creative Arts share a passion for the promotion of all arts mediums.  The residents of greater Maple Valley engage in visual arts, music, theatre, independent film making, dance and arts education.  The MVCAC recognized a lack of support for our artistic residents.  In the past twelve years, the MVCAC built support and resources to host arts shows, performances and classes for our youth and citizens.  Three years ago, the MVCAC opened a gallery where artists display art, performers perform and teachers teach.  All of this has been possible through the generous support of donors, fund raising efforts and grants.  The long-range goal is to open a performing arts auditorium to expand arts programs and opportunities in our community.

Mission Statement
The Maple Valley Creative Arts Council serves for the promotion and appreciation of the arts in our community and schools as a source of inspiration and education to enhance the quality of life for everyone.  The MVCAC continually seeks to cultivate stronger relationships, primarily in under-served South King County, with our schools, businesses and community specific to our youth and citizens in the areas of visual arts, performing arts and arts education.
Donate Now
Maple Valley Creative Arts Council
23220 Maple Valley Hwy SE 
Maple Valley 
WA
98038 
(425) 432-0810 

Mary Jane Glaser 
President 

Programs

Maple Valley Creative Arts Council Programs

Each year, since 1998, the Maple Valley Creative Arts Council has hosted an ArtsFest at the Lake Wilderness Lodge during Maple Valley Days.  180 works of art by local artists, photographers and sculptors are displayed and ten groups are invited to perform.  Art from young students and high school students is displayed.  Family art activities are enjoyed.  Over the course of two days, nearly 2000 visitors enjoy the arts.     

Every second and fourth Saturday, the Creative Arts Center hosts an open mic.  It is an opportunity for musicians, poets, dancers and magicians to perform.  Audiences are treated to a very entertaining evening in their community.  It is a donation only event.  A local caterer provides a delicious meal for a very affordable price.      

Every 6-8 weeks, the Creative Arts Center holds an Art Show reception to introduce the community to the art of a single artist or photographer.  This allows people to meet the artist and network with one another.  Until the Creative Arts Center opened in 2008, Maple Valley did not have an art gallery.

Recent Successes and Current Challenges

The Creative Arts Center is becoming very popular.  The open mics are, at times, standing room only.  Theatrical groups rent the CAC for performances.  It's gratifying that so many people attend events at the CAC; but, the space is too small.  There is a possibility of adding a mezzanine to the CAC to add more seating.  The landlord is willing to construct the addition which could cost approximately $20,000.

Evaluation


Since opening the Creative Arts Center, MVCAC’s paid membership has tripled. Center programming strives to provide a wide range of arts experiences, including visual arts exhibitions, Open Mic nights, concerts, art classes, and drama and painting summer-camps for local students.

The Creative Arts Center is now booked regularly six days per week, and has been successful in generating enough income to cover its lease and expenses.

Grant History with The Seattle Foundation:

Grants Awarded through The Seattle Foundation Grantmaking Program:

DateAmountPurpose
6/10/2010 $5,000.00support general operating expenses.
6/26/2008 $4,000.00support TheArtHouse Capital Campaign.

Financials

Similar Organizations

Give broadly to Arts & Culture
If broadening access and engagement with the arts, increasing arts education in public schools, and creating and preserving arts space is important to you, then make a difference by giving to the Grantmaking Program.
Questions or comments about this organization?
Contact us to learn more.