 Arts Views is a monthly e-newsletter from the Medina County Arts Council to promote our mission to advocate for, support, and nurture the arts in Medina County. Thank You For Making Arts Week A Success ! The Medina County Arts Council’s 43rd Annual Arts Week, held July 12–19, 2026, was a vibrant celebration of creativity, connection, and community spirit across Medina County. From hands-on art experiences and live demonstrations to musical performances and community gatherings, Arts Week showcased the many ways the arts enrich our daily lives. The Day of Celebrating the Arts on July 14 brought the Historic Medina Square to life with artists, performers, and families coming together to experience and create art in all its forms. This weeklong celebration would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, whose commitment to the arts helps make these meaningful experiences accessible to our community. We are also deeply grateful to the following talented instructors and artists who shared their time, creativity, and passion through workshops and demonstrations, inspiring participants of all ages:
Most importantly, thank you to our community—residents, families, and visitors—who showed up, participated, and celebrated alongside us. Your enthusiasm and support are what continue to make Arts Week a cherished Medina County tradition. We hope to see you next year for Arts Week 2027 which will be July 11th thru 18th ! 2026 Service to the Arts Recipients The Medina County Arts Council was proud to recognize three outstanding community members with the 2026 Service to the Arts Awards during Arts Week on July 14, as part of the Day of Celebrating the Arts on the Historic Medina Square. This year’s honorees—Lindsay Hastings, Steven Hadgis, and Sally Lucas—represent decades of dedication to enriching the cultural fabric of Medina County. Each has made a lasting impact through arts education, mentorship, and expanding access to creative experiences for people of all ages. Lindsay Hastings was honored for her commitment to music education and her work inspiring young musicians through both classroom teaching and private instruction. Steven Hadgis was recognized for his transformative leadership as a band director, shaping generations of students and building a thriving music program. Sally Lucas was celebrated for her innovative approach to arts education and her success in bringing meaningful, hands-on artistic opportunities into schools and the community. For more than 30 years, the Service to the Arts Awards have celebrated individuals who go above and beyond to support, promote, and sustain the arts in Medina County. We are grateful to this year’s recipients for their passion, leadership, and lasting contributions to our vibrant arts community.  Dinning for the Arts Dining for the Arts – Oktoberfest 2026 brings our community together for an evening of traditional Oktoberfest meal prepared by “Cookin’ with Karl” Gerhard and live music during the cocktail hour. Thursday, September 10th @6PM at the home of Paul & Sue Becks - German beers, wines, mixed drinks. - Mixed greens salad with light vinaigrette dressing. - Roasted chicken, bratwurst, & sausages - Karl’s Special homemade potato salad Sauerkraut spätzle - Warm apfelstrudel with vanilla ice cream & Karl’s famous caramelized apples - Coffee, tea, & schnapps. Reserve your spot to help MCAC continue offering programs, workshops, and events that keep the arts thriving close to home. TICKETS: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/dining-for-the-arts-oktoberfest--2026 30th Annual Spirits of the Past - A Walk into HistoryA Family Friendly Guided Walk* Through Medina’s History - Step back in time and experience the lives and legends of Medina’s early pioneers. Join us for a 60-minute guided walking** tour around Medina’s Historic Square, where history comes to life through engaging reenactments by talented local actors. Along the route, you'll encounter powerful portrayals of true stories, unforgettable characters, and key moments that shaped our community.  Learn more at MedinaCountyArtsCouncil.org/spirits-of-the-past 5th Annual Chocolate Walk FundraiserLove chocolate? Join the fun! The Medina County Arts Council is seeking chocolatiers and sponsors for our 5th Annual Chocolate Walk fundraiser on October 24th. This sweet community event is the perfect opportunity to showcase your business, gain exposure, and support the arts. Take a stroll around historic Medina’s Public Square as participants explore local shops and enjoy a variety of chocolate-themed treats along the way. It’s a deliciously fun experience that celebrates community, creativity, and local businesses—all while supporting access to the arts. Tickets go on sale August 1st, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this beloved fall tradition! Special thanks to our generous sponsors, Sam Custer - State Fram Agent and Indulge Chocolates/Chill Artisan Ice Cream, for helping make this event even sweeter.  Participants enjoy a self-guided tour of participating local businesses, collecting a variety of chocolate-themed treats at each stop. It’s a great way to explore Medina’s vibrant downtown, connect with friendly faces, and discover hidden gems — all while supporting the arts in our community. Proceeds benefit the Medina County Arts Council, helping fund grants for local teachers and organizations to enhance arts programs, as well as scholarships for graduating Medina County high school students who wish to continue their arts education and pursue their creative passions. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a supporter of the arts, or just looking for a fun day out — the Chocolate Walk is the perfect blend of community spirit and sweet indulgence! Community Window GalleryThe Window Art Gallery features a diverse selection of paintings, photography, sculptures, and other forms of art. This initiative promises to bring a dynamic artistic flair to the heart of Medina. Submit your artwork today for the Community Window Gallery  Get Involved with MCACThe dedication and talent of MCAC’s volunteers having been making a significant impact in our community for over 40 years. Are you passionate about nurturing, supporting, and advocating for the arts in Medina County? Join us and help make a lasting impact on the arts in our community. The Medina County Arts Council is currently seeking dedicated Medina County residents to become volunteers and help guide MCAC. If you’re motivated, enjoy hands-on projects, and have a get-it-done attitude, you’ll fit right in. Examples of some of the opportunities:
We’re excited to introduce our new volunteer resource - POINT! It’s easier than ever to give back to our community.
Getting started is easy:
Questions? Contact Sheila or Margaret at MedinaCoArtsCouncil@gmail.com New & Improved Way to GiveWe’ve upgraded our online donation platform to make giving easier—and more impactful! You can now support the arts through Zeffy, a secure, user-friendly platform designed specifically for nonprofits.
✔️ 100% of your donation goes directly to our mission ✔️ No platform or transaction fees deducted from your gift ✔️ Simple, streamlined giving experience Zeffy is able to stay free thanks to optional tips from donors, which are completely voluntary and separate from your donation. Ready to give? Donate here Thank you for helping us continue to advocate, support, and nurture the arts in our community! Medina County Arts Council |
