About

MAC Center for the Arts, a registered charitable organization, supports Vermont's Creative Economy through the sale of our member's work at our 4,000 square foot Main Street gallery. In addition to our gallery store and seasonal opening receptions, we offer a full calendar of special events, performances, visiting and original exhibits, classes and workshops. All are open to the public and most are free to attend.

The MAC story

The Memphremagog Arts Collaborative began at a meeting of area artists in October of 2006 when initial plans for the Collaborative were outlined after several former groups had tried and abandoned their dream.

In January of 2007, both artists and members of the community- at- large were invited to "GOT ART," an informational / planning meeting held in the Emory Hebard State Office Building. Some skepticism still existed and several said it couldn't be done. By this point a grant from the Vermont Community Foundation had been received and it was decided to rent the storefront at 167 Main Street in Downtown Newport for the site of our Center The Center formally opened on November 17, 2007 with Governor and Mrs. Jim Douglas cutting the ribbon along with the Board of Directors. Over 150 people attended. 

 We continued to grow and soon wanted our own space again. In time for our 3rd anniversary, we moved into our present location, again doubling our size and being located between the new Baan Thai restaurant, Wider Than the Sky store, and Montgomery’s Cafe. Another grant from the Vermont Community Foundation and gifts from our members made the move a smooth one. It’s a truly great place to be! Our first big event was the ‘new’ annual Art In Bloom event where we welcomed 15 floral designers who chose artwork and made complementary floral arrangements, as well as the new 15 piece Newport Area Community Orchestra. Over 150 attended. What a night it was! We continue to seeou increased guest visits. Our events are  well attended and we look forward to even more events, exhibits,classes, and workshops at the MAC Center for the Arts