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The Ada Public Art Program
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The Ada Public Art Program was established to enrich the cultural, aesthetic, and economic vitality of Ada, Michigan through the thoughtful integration of public art into community life. By bringing exceptional artistic experiences into public spaces, the program celebrates creativity, honors local history, supports artistic disciplines, and enhances the everyday experience of residents and visitors alike.

 

Through permanent commissions, exhibitions and temporary installations, performances, and artist-led events, the program transforms parks, civic spaces, municipal buildings, and community gathering places into destinations for inspiration, learning, and connection. By making art accessible beyond traditional spaces, the program encourages public engagement while creating new opportunities for artists to share their work with diverse audiences.

 

We believe public art is more than just an enhancement to the built environment- it shapes how individuals experience a place. It preserves cultural heritage, sparks dialogue, encourages exploration and learning, and creates memorable spaces that foster civic pride and a stronger sense of community. It can also serve as a catalyst for tourism, thereby supporting local businesses and contributing to Ada's continued economic vitality.

 

Central to the program's mission is our commitment to championing artists. Through partnerships with local, regional and national artists, cultural organizations, educational institutions, businesses, and municipal leaders, the Ada Public Art Program seeks to cultivate a vibrant creative ecosystem that reflects the character, history, and aspirations of the community.

 

Together, as the program grows, these efforts will create lasting cultural assets, strengthen Ada's identity as a destination for creative experiences, and enrich the community for generations to come.

Current Projects
Ada Ladies Literary Club

The Ada Arts Council is pleased to announce inaugural project of the Ada Public Art Program, The Ada Ladies Literary Club, a monumental drawing by ArtPrize-winning artist Chris LaPorte. Inspired by a historic photograph of Ada’s early literary society, the piece will honor the women who helped shape the town’s intellectual and cultural foundation and will be permanently installed at the Amy Van Andel Library & Community Center.

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Kristen Wildes, Executive Director, Ada History Center

"The Ada Historical Society is delighted to collaborate with the Ada Arts Council and artist Chris LaPorte on a new mural project to be exhibited at the Amy Van Andel Library - Ada Community Center. This grand-scale public artwork will shine a well-deserved spotlight on the Ada Ladies Literary Society and its meaningful place in our community’s story. It will invite residents and visitors to connect with Ada’s rich heritage through public art, honoring the women whose love of learning, fellowship, and civic spirit helped shape local history."

Future Initiatives

Poetry in the Park
Enjoy an outdoor celebration of poetry in the beautiful setting of Ada Park, bringing together community, creativity, and the spoken word.

Ada Art Walk
Explore art throughout Ada Village! Local businesses will showcase artwork, creating a walkable community art experience for visitors of all ages.

250th Anniversary Invitational Art Exhibit
In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, local artists and artisans will be invited to showcase their work in a special exhibit hosted at the Ada Historical Society.

Supporters

A Thank You to Our Founding Supporters

 

The Ada Arts Council is proud to recognize the individuals, foundations, businesses, and community organizations whose early leadership has helped bring this vision to life and made the Ada Public Art Program possible. Their generosity reflects a shared belief in the power of public art to inspire, connect, and strengthen communities.

 

As the program continues to grow, these founding supporters will be recognized as the visionary partners who helped establish Ada's commitment to public art and cultural enrichment.

Founding Leadership Sponsors

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Major Donors

Community Partners

Friends of the Library

Ada Township

Community municipals, etc

The historical association

- Logos?

 

Grant Support

The grant from the township, business district..

Become a Supporter

The Ada Public Art Program is made possible through the generosity of individuals, businesses, foundations, and community partners who believe in the transformative power of the arts. Your contribution helps create lasting cultural experiences, expand opportunities for artists, and strengthen the creative fabric of our community.

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