As 2025 draws to a close, it’s clear that while the year has been a wild ride, one constant has stood out: the remarkable creativity within our MAA community. You’ve drawn, painted, and sculpted in your studios, outside in the city or nature, and everywhere inspiration struck. What you’ve brought to life is nothing short of extraordinary.

Your artwork continues to add joy to the world, lifting spirits and offering a welcome counterbalance to the volatility of modern life. Creativity is a profound gift… one that nourishes the artist and enriches everyone fortunate enough to experience it.

This year also brought new Board members, new volunteers, and new venues where you’ve had the chance to share your work all while keeping our long-standing Board members and partners active and engaged. We’re deeply grateful for those continuing relationships and equally grateful for the new faces who jumped in and strengthened our community. Each of you contributes to MAA’s ongoing success.

So much heart and effort goes into every MAA offering.  Art shows, figure drawing sessions, plein air events, demos, blog posts, and field trips. Behind the scenes, there’s planning, logistics, tech support, financial oversight, communications, marketing, setup, and takedown, and of course, refreshments. Thank you to every person who shared their time, expertise, and enthusiasm throughout 2025. Your dedication is what keeps this organization thriving.

As we look toward 2026, we’re excited to offer even more opportunities for local artists to refine their techniques, explore new skills, and stay connected to a community that values and celebrates the arts; not only for what we create, but for the impact our creativity brings to the world.

Wishing each of you a joyful, creative, and inspiring 2026

With gratitude and excitement
Sylvia Douglin, MAA President