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Updates, stories, and spotlights from our vibrant arts community.

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Marion Cultural Alliance Announces Artist Opportunities for Public Art for the Art in Public buildings Project at the Ocala Florida Department of Transportation Building

Date: April 14th, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Location: FDOT Ocala Operations, Salt Springs Conference Room: 627 NW 30th Ave., Ocala, FL 34475

GoToWebinar Meeting ID: Webinar ID: 221-923-139

The Marion Cultural Alliance is hosting an information session for artists interested in exploring opportunities to submit artwork for the Art in Public Buildings Program at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Ocala facility, currently under construction in Marion County, Florida.

During this session, attendees will:

  • Review the current Call to Artists, which includes two available opportunities
  • Learn about the project criteria and eligibility requirements
  • Gain insight into the selection and review process
  • Tour the designated areas for installation to better understand the space and project scope

This is an opportunity for artists to better understand how to participate in public art projects and prepare competitive submissions.

The meeting is open to the public in accordance with Florida’s Government in the Sunshine Law.

Persons wishing to speak during public comment may do so during the designated portion of the meeting.

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. Persons wishing to express their concerns relative to FDOT compliance with Title VI may do so by contacting Melissa McKinney, FDOT District Five Title VI Coordinator, by clicking here.

Persons who require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or persons who require translation services (free of charge) should contact the Marion Cultural Alliance at least 48 hours in advance at:

Jaye Baillie, Art in Buildings Administrator | (352) 369-1500 | Click to Email


OCALA GAZETTE – JANUARY 2026 – 25 Years of Creativity: Horse Fever Artists Now

Drive around beautiful Marion County and you will be sure to see a large number of the colorful and creative Horse Fever life-size statues that grace (graze) many public and private properties.

From the original herd to later generations, Horse Fever has become a beloved symbol of community spirit, collaboration and artistic excellence.


OCALA MAGAZINE – AUGUST 2025 – THE ARTS ISSUE

Celebrating 45 years of storytelling and community impact, the August 2025 issue of Ocala Magazine presents its annual “Art Issue,” a vibrant tribute to local creativity and culture. This edition showcases original works from Ocala artists in partnership with the Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA), offering readers a stunning visual journey through painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. The featured cover piece, The Final Stretch by Stacie Rae Pedrick, captures the dynamic spirit of local art.


OCALA MAGAZINE’S BETTER THAN THE BEST 2024 – BCCA NAMED BEST ART GALLERY!

We’re thrilled to share that Marion Cultural Alliance has been named Best Art Gallery in Ocala Magazine’s 2024 Better Than the Best Awards! This community-driven recognition means the world to us — thank you to everyone who voted and continues to support local art and artists. Your love and engagement make MCA a true home for creativity, connection, and culture in Ocala!


GOOD NEIGHBORS – LIFTING THE ARTS IN OUR COMMUNITY

We’re so proud to see our Executive Director, Jaye Baillie, featured on the cover of Ocala’s Good Life Magazine! The story highlights Jaye’s inspiring leadership and her unwavering dedication to uplifting the arts and creative community in Marion County. Her passion and vision continue to shape a thriving cultural landscape where artists, organizations, and audiences come together to celebrate the power of art.


OCALA MAGAZINE – DECEMBER 2024 – MCA’S APPLAUD THE ARTS: SURREALIST FASHION!

We’re excited to see Ocala Magazine’s December 2024 issue feature our 16th annual Applaud the Arts: Surrealist Ball at the Reilly Arts Center! This unforgettable evening celebrated creativity in its boldest form — with guests turning heads in imaginative, art-inspired fashion that truly brought the surreal to life. Thank you to everyone who joined us in supporting the arts and making this year’s event a night to remember! Go to mcaocala.org/applaud-the-arts for more information on our annual fundraising event.

THE ARTICLE, HORSE FEVER, AND BEYOND…


MCA gains momentum as a ‘local arts agency’


How A Feel Good Public Art Project Has Transformed Our Community


Valerie Dailey, Showcase Property of Central Florida “Conversations of Hope”


Ernesto Maranje has Completed “Living Art Mural” on Brick City Center for the Arts


MCA & CITY OF OCALA 2020 LEVITT AMP GRANT WINNER!

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