Updates from MCA

A Message from Jaye Baillie APR, MCA Executive Director

DISCOVER YOUR ARTIST WITHIN! - Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) invites Ocala Metro business and community leaders to awaken their creative side with the return of the beloved Artist Within event!

This unique program pairs you with a talented local professional artist to create your very own masterpiece in the medium of your choice, including watercolor, stained glass, oil painting, metal jewelry, ceramics, photography, sculpture, metalwork, or mixed media.

What You Need to Know

Participant Selection: Fifteen selected "non-artists" will be paired with a professional artist to create a masterpiece in the medium of their choice.
Pairing Process: MCA will match your interests with a suitable local artist. Together, you'll arrange a schedule to bring your artistic vision to life.
Public Showcase: MCA will feature you and your artist on a dedicated landing page, showcasing your collaborative process and the final artwork to the public.
Auction Details: All completed pieces will be auctioned the evening of August 21, 2025, at IHMC. Each artist pair will receive complimentary tickets to the event, with additional tickets available for purchase at $75 each.
Participation Fee: A donation of $1,750 is required to participate. Each artist will receive a stipend of $875, with the remaining funds supporting MCA's grant programs and initiatives aimed at fostering the arts in Ocala/Marion County.

The Grand Finale - Your artwork will take center stage at the Auction and Bistro event on August 21, 2025, graciously hosted by our friends at IHMC. Guests will enjoy an elegant bistro setting and a live auction of these incredible creations. One complimentary ticket will be provided to each participant and artist. Additional tickets are available for $75.

A Tradition of Creativity - The Artist Within event, which first debuted in Ocala thanks to the vision of former MCA Board member Irmare Lora, draws inspiration from a similar initiative in Lima, Peru. This event celebrates the intersection of art and community, encouraging everyone to tap into their creative potential. MCA is thrilled to once again offer this exciting opportunity for community leaders to explore their artistic side while supporting the local arts.

Proceeds from the event will support MCA’s grant programs and initiatives to grow the arts in Ocala/Marion County. Participating artists will receive a $925 stipend, with the remaining funds directly benefiting MCA’s mission.

Ready to Discover Your Artist Within? Join us for this unforgettable creative journey and make your mark on Ocala’s vibrant arts community! Spots are limited—please confirm your interest by completing the Artist Within Application. MCA will invoice participants in June 2025.

For More Information, contact Jaye Baillie, MCA Executive Director at 352.229.2000 or Jaye.baillie@mcaocala.org

Block Party Canvases Now Available for Pick Up at The Brick!

Our Block Party Fundraiser returns, this year during Summer on 6/6/25! Artists and creatives are invited to claim a blank canvas (block) to be completed by May 31, 2025. Canvas are limited and will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

To claim yours, simply stop by The Brick during gallery hours. Click Here for More!

A Message from Ashley Justiniano, Chief Arts Officer

Join us for our April 2025 MCA member's reception on Friday, April 4 from 5-6pm. Back by popular demand, 'UpCycled 3: From Waste to Wonder', will feature creations by MCA Artist members using recycled materials as their main medium.

Thank you to our returning sponsors, Florida Express Waste & Recycling for their support of the arts!

Enjoy light refreshments, libations, and a chance to meet the artists. Our friends at Ocala Clothing Swap will be setting up shop in the Courtyard - come and support! MCA member receptions are for MCA members, artists, and patrons only (must RSVP). Gallery will open to the general public from 6-7:30pm during First Friday Art Walk festivities. No need to RSVP for visits after 6pm.

This exhibit will be on display from April 4 - 26, 2025 at The Brick in downtown Ocala. All art on display will be for sale with a percentage of the sales supporting MCA's mission and programs. For questions, contact gallery@mcaocala.com or call during business hours 352.369.1500.

The 2025 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series

Check Out What's Happening at The Brick

Did you know that MCA supports local artists and nonprofit arts organizations with direct funding?

Check out the Grant Opportunities section on our website to find out more and apply today!

NEW Open Calls for local artists are now available on the MCA website! MCA artist members can submit artworks for May's "Melodic Metamorphosis" exhibit, for The Shop's SUMMER Selection, and for Block Party 2025. For more info and to join/renew, please visit our website.

We a new OPEN CALL available for The Shop's SUMMER 2025 selection. Local artists & makers are invited to submit up to ten (10) items for consideration for our next selection. For more information, please visit our website and submit your items via ArtCall for review today!

Visit our Website for More

Book Your Next Event #atTheBrick!

Located in the heart of historic downtown Ocala, 'The Brick' offers a unique event space in a beautiful art gallery setting with an adjacent courtyard, both of which can be easily transformed to accommodate a variety of occasions. By renting The Brick, you directly support MCA's mission to champion the arts in Ocala Metro. Click here for more!

Explore Local Artistry through OMAS!

Ocala Metro Art Scene

Ocala Metro Art Scene is a comprehensive online resource for Arts, Culture, Entertainment, and local Events in Marion County, FL. Find descriptions, dates, times and locations for free events, theatre, music, dance, concerts, art exhibits, museums, film, lectures, workshops, kid-friendly events, special events and more.

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