About the Collective

students leaning on a ladder in front of refurbished storefront

Our Purpose

We work with neighbors, kids, creatives, and anyone hungry to make something real,

to create a shared space for art to be made, shown, taught, and lived..

because we believe in growing beauty where we are, making noise where we’ve been quiet, and lifting each other through creative work.

Our People

We are artists, teachers, students, organizers, parents, volunteers, and neighbors working together to make creativity more visible and accessible in our community.

Meet the Team

  • Myah Balmer

    OPERATIONS & PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR

    The MC Art Collective is like a wacky patchwork quilt...stitched together by a shared love of art, community, and connection.
    It’s a space to create, grow, and be seen, nurtured by the same kind of support that was given to us.
    A living thank you, carried forward.

  • Tara Guidinger

    LEAD CURATOR & DISTRICT LIAISON

    The MC Art Collective is a hub that brings the community together to support our young artists and celebrate the beauty that makes the world feel meaningful.
    It creates a space where people feel welcome, where expression is free, creativity is nurtured, and ideas are shared without judgement.
    A place to connect.
    To create.
    To belong.
    A place that feels like home, because it is.

  • Lindsey Dunn

    PROJECT MANAGER

    The Art Collective represents connection, creativity, and community to me. It brings together residents and local businesses while creating an inclusive space where people of all ages can come together to celebrate the arts. Being involved means helping build a shared experience that highlights the vibrancy and talent within our area/community..

  • Andrea Hesse

    DATA & SYSTEMS COORDINATOR

    The art collective to me is a shared creative space where people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives come together to collaborate and create something larger than any one individual could on their own. Each person brings their own voice, influences, and skills, and those differences become the foundation for new ideas to help support the local artists of the community.

  • Hiedi Mills

    COMMUNITY OUTREACH

    Being part of the MC Art Collective means more than just making art. It's about building a supportive space where artists collaborate, uplift one another and grow together.

  • Bailey Rice

    CREATIVE PRODUCTION & DESIGN

    MC Art Collective represents far more than a shared interest — it is a community of diverse individuals united by one powerful belief: that every young person deserves a creative outlet, whether it becomes a profession or simply a therapeutic sketchbook, handmade card, or small practice that brings joy and expression. As a graphic artist, I’m deeply inspired by this collective’s dedication to placing art in the hands of the next generation and by the remarkable members who, despite their different personalities and perspectives, share the same unwavering passion for involving youth in the art world.

  • Tami Tisor

    ENGAGEMENT & EVENT MEDIA

    It has been important to be part of a group that is shining a light on the young artists in our schools. It is rewarding to see the artists visibility and how it makes art a higher priority in our community.

  • Hannah Baker

    ARTWORK & EVENT SUPPORT

    By pulling talent out of the shadows, the collective ensures that every student and local creator is seen, valued, and given a stage. It transforms art from an isolated classroom subject into a shared community identity.

  • Chad Weeks

    ART GALA AUCTIONEER & ART WALK GUIDE

    I think my favorite part of the art collective is talking to the artists on the Art Walk and hearing what went into their individual pieces. These kids pour a ton of work, talent and emotions into their work and I'm just grateful I'm allowed to be a small part of their experience.

  • Clint Chaffer

    GALA AUCTIONEER

    working with the MC Art Collective is a chance for me to contribute to something that brings energy and joy to the community. It’s awesome to see young artists being lifted into the spotlight and sparking creativity around Mercer County. This organization is a great way to invest in our community’s future and keep that creative energy flowing right here at home!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • While we partner with Mercer County Schools and support many of their students, we are an independent, not-for-profit arts collective rooted in the wider community. We exist to fill the creative gaps, spark new opportunities, and extend the reach of arts education beyond the traditional classroom. Think of us as a bridge—connecting schools, families, and the community through the arts.

  • Not at all! While some of our programs are especially designed for K–12 students, we welcome anyone looking to appreciate and participate in the arts.

    In addition to youngsters, we especially encourage:

    • Local artists, educators, and creatives who want to give back

    • Alumni of our programs ready to mentor the next generation

    • Friends and families of young artists looking for deeper engagement

    • Retired teachers, community leaders, and business owners eager to support the arts

  • There are lots of ways to support the MC Art Collective—whether you want to lend a hand, share your skills, donate supplies, or just show up and cheer us on. However you get involved, you’re helping creativity grow in our community. → Click here to learn more.