Actively supporting the arts in Elk Rapids, Michigan, Art Rapids! is a non-profit organization founded in 2006 by a group of arts-minded citizens to organize a juried art fair. Since that time, the organization has expanded to include other outreach programs:
• Scholarships for graduating Elk Rapids seniors pursuing higher education in the arts
• Scholarships for high-school undergraduates for advanced arts instruction
• Grants to teachers, schools, area residents and groups for arts-related projects and activities
• Community arts events
• Gifts of art and concerts to the community
In 2012, Art Rapids! began working with Antrim County to develop an outdoor sculpture park in the county-owned, waterfront Elk Rapids Day Park. This “Walk of Art” offers selected artists a place to exhibit their work for sale, helps attract visitors, and provides art-education opportunities to youth and the community at large. Currently, the Walk of Art features 30 sculptures.
Art Rapids! Board of Directors
Becky Lancaster, President
Nancy Baker, Vice President
Barb Mullaly, Secretary
Jackie Roberts, Treasurer, Budget and Finance
Laura Andersen, Board Member and Events Chair
Sherri DeCamp, Walk of Art Chair
Debbie Dennis, Board Member
Nancy McRay, Board Member and Education Chair
Karen Morris, Board Member
Jim Witte, Publicity and Marketing Chair
Babs Young, Board Member and Photographer