The Pentwater Arts Council (PAC) was founded in 2009 with a simple but powerful idea: that art and art education enrich community life. Officially established as a Michigan nonprofit on September 12, 2009, the PAC was brought to life through the vision and dedication of Patric Sullivan, along with founding board members James Ege, Neil Lemme, and Maxine McLeod.

What began as a small, passionate group quickly grew as the organization became more active within the community. Over the years, the Board has expanded to include many dedicated artists, educators, and arts advocates from across Oceana County—people united by a shared belief in creativity, learning, and connection. Their collective energy has shaped the PAC into the vibrant organization it is today.

In its early years, the PAC met seasonally and found welcoming homes in a variety of spaces—including Patric and Marilyn’s shop, Marilyn’s Style. Thanks to the generosity of the Stiphany family, the PAC later enjoyed a dedicated space in the Hancock Building.

Today, the Village of Pentwater provides a home for PAC meetings at Park Place. Meetings are held monthly, with in-person gatherings from April through November and virtual meetings during the winter months.

In 2011, the PAC took an important step forward by applying for federal nonprofit status. The organization was officially granted 501(c)(3) status in October 2012, affirming its role as a Board-governed, mission-driven nonprofit. This milestone helped solidify the PAC’s long-term commitment to serving the arts and the community.

At its core, the mission of the Pentwater Arts Council remains clear:

To support the arts—including visual, theater, music, and performing arts—and to enhance arts education in Pentwater and throughout Oceana County.

From its grassroots beginnings to its growing impact today, the Pentwater Arts Council continues to celebrate creativity, foster education, and bring people together through the arts.