The Friends of the Madison Arts Commission is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2020 to support the Madison Arts Commissions (MAC)'s efforts to encourage artistic activities and initiate cultural programs that integrate, support and advance arts and culture as an essential part of life in Madison. This is especially important given some of the constraints that limit MAC's ability to fulfill its mission, including limited budgetary allocations, restrictions on fund-raising, and prohibited spending on things such as expenses, refreshments, equipment, travel, and arts advocacy.
The organization consists of a volunteer Board of Directors and arts supporters who contribute financially at various levels and who take an active part in MAC events. Founding board members include Leslee Nelson, Barbara (Bobbi) Schrank, and Nick Schweitzer. The current chair and co-chair of the Board are Kia Karlen and Cedric Johnson. Other current board members are Tim Gruber (secretary), Deja Mason, Maria Sobrido, Donna Vance (treasurer), and Sarah Warner.