The Mariposa County Arts Council (MCACI) opened its doors in 1981 and is dedicated to enriching Mariposa through the arts. Serving the county at large and working closely with our local government leaders as well as individuals, regional organizations and businesses, we develop and implement cultural policies, creative placemaking projects, arts educations initiatives and produce artistic programming designed to positively increase the visibility of Mariposa and amplify the many diverse voices in our community. Our work welcomes all local residents and visitors to engage with art experiences and is designed to facilitate personal interpretations, expression, and growth; strengthen social connections and community dialogue; connect rural Mariposa to issues, movements, and opportunities beyond its borders; and support the healthy development of individuals of all ages by engaging them in the creation and appreciation of art.

MCACI’s work includes: develop cultural policy and creative placemaking initiatives; providing technical assistance to regional artists and arts organizations; developing and delivering a variety of TK-12 grade creative youth development and arts education programming to youth across Mariposa County; targeted mentoring programming for at-promise youth; special arts programming for adults with limited or no access to the arts (particularly incarcerated and geographically isolated older adults); public programming (community theatre and summer concert series); and local, regional, state, and national advocacy work.