Since opening in September 2007, Merrymeeting Arts Center has been an active member of the Bowdoinham community, providing a place where children and adults can participate in and enjoy the arts. Inspired and guided by the eclectic spirit of Bryce Muir the center encourages art, education and community celebrating the cultural heritage and natural environment of Merrymeeting Bay. Woven through its artists, programs and projects are MAC’s Values: egalitarianism, whimsy, environmental consciousness and diversity. The Merrymeeting Arts Center’s mission, vision and goals were developed with input from the citizens of Bowdoinham. The “S” in Merrymeeting Arts Center is intentional. Once again the center draws on Bryce Muir for inspiration and guidance. “The arts” encompasses a broad range of arts including visual arts, literary arts and the performing arts – music, theatre, dance and film. Bryce viewed “the arts” in the broadest sense and “artists” as all those who make art in any genre. Bryce’s art – drawings, sculpture, music, performing arts, literature and boat building – embodied his belief that art is life and that whatever moves a person is art.
Mission: Merrymeeting Arts Center encourages art, education and community celebrating the cultural heritage and natural environment of Merrymeeting Bay.
Values: Egalitarianism, whimsy, environmental consciousness, and diversity through its artists, programs and projects. Vision: Merrymeeting Arts Center develops community by providing a place where everyone can enjoy and participate in the arts.
Goals: Exhibits - Mount at least 4 per year, one show being a community show based on the myth of the year. Education - Offer workshops and classes designed to meet interest & demand. Events - Partnering with other organizations, the center encourages creative and sustainable development of the local economy.