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Marion Cultural Alliance

August

2025

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Updates from MCA

A Message from Jaye Baillie APR, MCA Executive Director

Marion Cultural Alliance’s Annual Arts Awards, Honoring Excellence in Arts Education, Service & Vision

Established in 2016, MCA’s Arts Awards are a cherished tradition of our annual Applaud the Arts celebration, held each Fall. These honors recognize individuals and organizations making a lasting impact on the arts in the Ocala Metro area.

Award Categories:

Arts Educator Award - Celebrates a local arts educator (K–college) who demonstrates excellence in teaching and uses the arts as a powerful tool for student achievement.

Service Award - Honors an outstanding individual whose dedicated volunteerism has significantly enriched the Ocala Metro arts community.

Vision Award - Recognizes an individual or organization whose passion and advocacy have advanced the arts and inspired others across our region.

Award Presentation: Winners will be announced at the 18th Annual Applaud the Arts on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Appleton Museum of Art.

Eligibility:

Nominees must be based in the Ocala Metro area and may include:

Arts professionals and educators (for-profit or nonprofit)
Volunteers
Schools or government entities
Arts supporters and advocates of all kinds

Evaluation Criteria:

Nominees will be judged on their demonstrated excellence in one of the following:

Education • Vision • Service

How to Nominate:

The nomination period opens April 25, 2025 and closes September 5, 2025 at 5 PM. Go online to mcaocala.org/arts-awards and fill out the online form.

Selection Process:

Applications will be reviewed by the MCA Arts Awards Selection Committee, led by a member of the MCA Board. The committee will evaluate all submissions based on merit and completeness, and present final recommendations to the MCA Board of Directors for approval.

Save the Date!

18th Annual Applaud the Arts: Olympus Odyssey!

Friday, November 15 | 6:00–9:00 PM

Appleton Museum of Art

Step into a world of myth and majesty as Marion Cultural Alliance proudly presents its 18th Annual Applaud the Arts, themed Olympus Odyssey—an evening of divine inspiration and artistic celebration.

This year’s unforgettable experience is presented and sponsored by Lisa Irwin. Tickets and sponsorship options are now available at mcaocala.org/applaud-the-arts.

MCA's Annual Auction

It’s almost auction time! Join us for an unforgettable hybrid celebration at the MCA Annual Auction & Closing Party on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 from 5–7pm at The Brick! 🎉 Get ready to bid on incredible local experiences, exciting travel adventures, gift-worthy treasures and more. Online bidding opens Sept 2—so stay tuned.

Want to contribute? We’re still accepting donations of unique local goods & experiences through Aug 22.

Help us support the arts and MCA’s Give4Marion Campaign—every donation and bid makes a difference. For tickets or to donate, connect with us. Click here for more information.

A Message from Ashley Justiniano, Chief Arts Officer

Join us for the Opening Reception of the 10th Annual Art of Aging Exhibition! In partnership with Marion Senior Services.

Celebrate a decade of creativity, wisdom, and inspiration as we unveil the 2025 Art of Aging exhibit, featuring works in a variety of mediums by talented MCA artist members ages 55 and up. This year’s theme, “Gallery of Gratitude,” invited artists and audiences alike to reflect on the people, moments, and milestones that have shaped their journey.

Opening Reception Details:

Enjoy complimentary tapas by La Casella Catering, light refreshments at the bar, and connect with the featured artists during this special evening of community and celebration. Admission is free, but RSVP is requested (click here to confirm).

🍽️ Lunch & Learn Series:

As part of the Art of Aging experience, we’ll also host a series of free Lunch & Learn workshops throughout August, focusing on topics relevant to senior health and caregivers. See the full lineup of events at mcaocala.org, and RSVP online!

Art of Aging is a collaborative initiative between Marion Cultural Alliance and Marion Senior Services, honoring the aging journey through art, stories, and education. The exhibit will be on view August 1–30, 2025 at Brick City Center for the Arts (#atTheBrick).

We are GRATEFUL to our sponsors: Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute & Urology Institute of Central Florida, Roberts of Ocala Funeral & Cremations, Advent Health of Ocala, and the Senior Learners Inc. Questions? Call us at 352-369-1500 or visit mcaocala.org

MCA Volunteer Opportunities!

Fall is coming! Being the busiest season at The Brick, and we would love some extra help! If you enjoy being surrounded by art and uniquely creative people, then MCA is just the place to be!

Visit our website at mcaocala.org/volunteer to browse our current opportunities and sign up for your shift of choice! Contact Jonia via email or phone for any questions.

Thank You to Our Gallery Sponsors!

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!

Cultural Grants season (for local non-profits) concludes on July 15! Click here to learn more.

Check out our Open Calls available for MCA artists members for the "Where We Gather" art exhibition in September 2025, sponsored by Angie Lewis State Farm. Other opportunities coming soon! For more info and to apply, please visit our website and check out the "Artists" section.

Check out our new selection for The Shop's SUMMER 2025 curated collection! This year's Summer collection includes unique hand-made jewelry, home decor, original paintings, sculptures, home-made candles, glass art, notecards, journals and more! Stop by during gallery hours and support local art!

Visit our Website 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, (NEW) an online artist-for-hire directory featuring local musicians, performers, fine artists, and more.

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