Mendocino Art Center’s Dav Bell Champions Inclusivity and Growth

The Mendocino Art Center (MAC) is experiencing a transformative period under the leadership of its executive director, Dav Bell. Since taking on the role over a year ago, Bell has prioritized community engagement, aiming to integrate the voices of both emerging and established artists within the region.

Bell, who brings a rich background in both the arts and community organizing, emphasizes the importance of listening to constituents. “I didn’t come in with a crazy agenda, but I felt it was vital to understand what people wanted,” he stated. This approach has resonated positively with the community, fostering a collaborative spirit at MAC.

Embracing Diversity and Accessibility

Bell recognizes a generational shift in the non-profit sector, particularly in Mendocino County, where younger individuals are stepping into leadership roles. He aims to bridge the gap between these new voices and the founding members of the organization. “These are the teaching moments that we’re leaning into,” he remarked, highlighting the collaborative nature of this transition.

The success of MAC’s recent summer fundraiser, which raised twice the anticipated amount, has provided a financial boost that will enable significant improvements to the facility. “We are making the MAC as accessible as possible, so we’ll be addressing all the steps, pathways, even the doorknobs,” Bell explained. Collaborating with community members who use assistive devices has revealed potential hazards that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Although the property is historically designated and not mandated to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Bell insists that creating an inclusive environment is about more than regulations. “Let’s make this a place where people in wheelchairs and walkers can wander freely and safely,” he emphasized.

Fostering Artistic Expression

The upcoming exhibit, titled “Natural Death,” set to open in November 2025, reflects the current political climate and its impact on local communities. It features the work of twelve artists, including Ann Beck, an interdisciplinary artist known for her contributions to the Larry Spring Museum. This exhibit aims to spark conversations about the meaning of art in challenging times. “It’s about creating a conversation about where this show ends up,” Bell noted, emphasizing the need for artists to be responsive to societal shifts.

As part of his efforts to enhance accessibility, Bell has restructured the MAC’s artist residency program. He introduced a sliding scale for residency fees, which allows artists facing financial challenges to participate. “The goal is to build the program so that we have artists here 365 days per year,” he explained. The response has been promising, with recent cohorts evenly split between those paying at the lower “Seed” scale and the higher “Abundance” scale.

Bell is also exploring ways to increase financial accessibility within MAC’s educational programs. By prioritizing local teaching artists, he aims to minimize class cancellations and ensure that individuals from diverse income levels can participate. “We want people with different income levels to be able to participate in our programs,” he stated.

The Greenhouse residency program, which received approximately 80 applications this year, has welcomed twenty-five residents. This initiative not only supports artists but also individuals engaged in food and climate justice work. Bell expressed satisfaction with how the residency fosters a sense of trust and connection among participants.

Meya Marrufo, a curator with Indigenous roots, is currently leading the exhibit “Mómim Wené: Medicine Water,” which showcases the work of over thirty regional Native artists. This exhibit aims to highlight the relationship between artists and their waterways, providing a platform for Indigenous narratives. “We are bringing life back into the gallery,” Marrufo stated, underscoring the dynamic presence of contemporary Indigenous art.

The MAC is set to host the 9th annual Native Arts Expo on October 25-26, 2025. This free event will feature storytelling, music, and discussions, enhancing the center’s role in promoting cultural exchange. Bell hopes that future Expos will continue to be held at the MAC, further embedding the center in the community.

Recently, the MAC hosted the “Paint Out” Plein Aire event, a historic gathering that has taken place for nearly seventy years. Reflecting on his experience, Bell noted the value of artists engaging in solitude and introspection. “Events like this allow artists to regroup and consider where they need to place their attention,” he said.

As the Mendocino Art Center continues to evolve under Dav Bell’s leadership, the focus on community, accessibility, and artistic expression stands out as a model for how cultural organizations can adapt to the needs of their constituents. For more information on upcoming events or to support the MAC, visit mendocinoartcenter.org or call (707) 937-5818.