April 1st, 2026 Local News
Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - The Mineral Area Council on the Arts, known as MACOA, has been recognized with the Heart for Art Award from the Missouri Art Education Association.
The award was presented during the association’s awards luncheon last Friday and honors organizations that make a strong impact on arts education, student opportunities, and community involvement through the arts.
MACOA was nominated by Bismarck Art Teacher Maribel Ramirez-Bohnenkamp, who praised the organization for its continued support of schools, educators, students, and local creatives throughout the Mineral Area.
According to the nomination, MACOA has played a key role in helping the arts remain active and accessible in rural communities by organizing events, supporting creative growth, and recognizing artistic achievement. Several of the group’s programs were highlighted, including the Art Blooms Banner Competition, Future Artists Fund Grants, and the K–12 Student Art Show.
The nomination also recognized MACOA’s impact on local school systems by helping provide resources and opportunities that may otherwise be difficult to access. Leadership from Tiffany Gallaher, Abril Warner, and the MACOA board was also noted for helping create inclusive and meaningful arts experiences for people of all ages.
MACOA says it is deeply honored to receive the award and grateful for the continued support of teachers, artists, families, students, and community partners across the region.
The organization says that support helps fuel its mission to continue creating programs and initiatives that uplift, educate, and inspire communities throughout the Mineral Area.