About MAC > History

In the late 1990s, the Montclair Township recognized how unique its arts community was, and it asked a committee of interested citizens to do an extensive survey of Township residents to determine what structure and tools were needed to support the arts in town. This resulted in the creation of the 2001 Montclair Arts Plan. Part of that plan called for the formation of a Montclair Arts Council. CLick here for the Montclair Arts Plan. 
In August, 2004 the Montclair Interim Arts Council (MIAC) was established by the township. The Board and the Executive Committee were asked to assess existing township art programs, set up a Public Art Committee, and create a development plan for a permanent Montclair Arts Council. By December, 2004, the MIAC presented an action plan for creating MAC to the town council.

On June 30, 2005, the Township appointed a 25-member Board of Directors of the permanent Montclair Arts Council. Since that time, the directors have helped connect existing artistic and cultural ventures with each other and with arts lovers and patrons throughout the region. An important element of MAC was becoming a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and creating an officer and committee structure to support MAC activities.

In January, 2006, MAC moved into an office in the municipal building and also appointed Jim Peskin as Executive Director. Jim brought with him many years of professional activity in the theater. His administrative experience facilitated setting up a temporary website and creating the "MAC NewsFlash" to communicate to the business and residential population about arts and cultural events.