Board of Directors 

Board President

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​Chip Clark is a registered architect and former architecture professor with deep experience working across design, education, and the arts. His background includes more than a decade of teaching and research with multi‑disciplinary teams, as well as extensive collaboration with artists to plan and deliver large‑scale, complex installations. Chip maintains close ties to ongoing construction and placemaking efforts in Ada and the greater Grand Rapids region, bringing a grounded understanding of how the built environment and the arts intersect to strengthen community life.

Board Vice President

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​Mix has served on the boards of numerous nonprofit organizations in the areas of the arts, education and community-support in both Grand Rapids and Manistee Michigan, as well as with state-wide arts advocacy organizations.  He has handled roles in marketing, public and community relations, advertising and strategic planning in both the corporate and non-profit sectors. He currently serves as Vice President of the Ada Arts Council and is both a founding and active board member of the historic Vogue Theatre in Manistee.

Board Secretary 

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As a graphic designer and practicing fine artist, I enjoy creating opportunities that connect artists and audiences while helping the arts flourish in Ada. I’ve proudly served on the Ada Arts Council board for 30 years.

Board of Directors

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Simone DiLaura is a visual artist and creative professional with over 25 years of experience in the international art world, working with galleries, museums, collectors, and artists across the US, UK, Europe, and Asia. Her career has included organizing and managing major exhibitions and public art projects, including initiatives connected to the Venice Biennale and collaborations with leading cultural institutions worldwide. She currently serves on the Advisory Council for Creative Capital in New York and joined the Ada Arts Council to help expand opportunities for artists and guide the development of Ada’s emerging Public Art Program.

Board of Directors

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​As an artist myself, my passion is connection - bringing artists together and creating opportunities for the community to experience their work is deeply fulfilling. Organizing art shows and amplifying artist visibility is not just a commitment, it is deeply personal.

Board of Directors

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Tiler Payne is an award-winning oil painter and community advocate with a strong interest in connecting artists and residents through creative programming and local arts initiatives. Her background includes experience in special events, community outreach, marketing, sponsorship development, and nonprofit board service, bringing experience in developing partnerships and supporting arts and community initiatives. Passionate about working with youth and the broader community, she brings a creative perspective and a commitment to strengthening the role of the arts in Ada through her work with the Ada Arts Council.

Board of Directors

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Phil Vogelsang is a registered engineer specializing in bridge, highway, non-motorized trail, and public space design. His major works include the Gordie Howe International Bridge and Palm Beach International Airport. He has managed park improvement projects throughout Michigan. He has designed several stream restoration projects, including Dow Gardens, and waterfront improvements along Flagler Boulevard in West Palm Beach.  He has been a Council board member for 18 years and President for seven. He was an Ada Township Trustee, Planning Commissioner, Zoning Board of Appeals and Trail Committee member. He values the vibrant arts community in Ada, enjoying the opportunity to celebrate the work of talented artists. Above all, Phil appreciates collaborating with an Arts Council made up of energetic, dedicated, and passionate community supporters.

Board of Directors 

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​What I enjoy most about being involved is helping create something that brings people together and seeing the energy and collaboration that comes from a strong community effort. I also really value being part of a community that supports the arts. Creating spaces where artists can make, share their work, and feel supported in the creative process is something I care deeply about.  I think it makes for a better community - more vibrant and unique. 

Treasurer

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​Kathy’s connection to the Ada Arts Council began more than 33 years ago when she volunteered to help prepare food for the Ada Arts Festival. That experience quickly grew into a lasting passion for the Council and the community it serves.
With a career in accounting that began in 1970 at RJ McBain CPA, Kathy brings decades of financial expertise to the organization. As Treasurer, she supports the Council through careful stewardship and a deep commitment to its mission.

Board of Directors

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​Craig Merchant is a mixed-media sculptor with a passion for public art and the role it plays in shaping vibrant, welcoming communities. Through his work and collaborations with local organizations, he has been involved in several public art projects throughout West Michigan. His artwork can be found in places such as the City of Grand Rapids, John Ball Zoo, and at the United States Embassy in Botswana, Africa.

Board of Directors 

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Marlene Kenneway has a lifelong passion for the performing arts. She owned and operated the Ada Dance Academy for 25 years and is the co-founder of the West Michigan Youth Ballet, where she currently serves as Chairman of the Board. Her leadership has helped support and inspire young dancers throughout the West Michigan community.

Advisory Committee ​

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Marella is an award-winning visual artist and gallerist with over 22 years of experience in the fine arts. She brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding of gallery workings, art fairs, art mentorship, and commercial art sales. Her paintings have been recognized internationally, including the top acquisition award at Frederik Meijer Gardens’ Loeschner Art Competition. Marella brings a practice-based perspective to the arts community, with a leadership style that is both creatively inspired and operationally

grounded. She is a dedicated collaborator who thrives on building sustainable systems that support fellow artists and cultural institutions alike.