Mountain’s Edge Culture & Arts Society of Hinton

Building a vibrant, inclusive arts community

Mountain’s Edge Culture and Arts Society of Hinton (MECA) is a volunteer-led, community-driven nonprofit dedicated to supporting arts, culture, and creativity in Hinton, Alberta and the surrounding region.

We work to create opportunities for artists, amplify community voices, and bring arts experiences to shared spaces where everyone feels welcome.

Joy Burkinshaw chatting with visitors at Lace & Lumberjacks Market

Our Origin

MECA began with a simple idea: that Hinton’s creative energy deserved a place to grow, connect, and be seen. Local artists, organizers, and community members recognized the need for a dedicated arts-focused organization—one that could support emerging talent, collaborate with partners, and help shape a more vibrant cultural landscape.

Founded on collaboration and community care, MECA now serves as a connector between artists, audiences, venues, and organizations across the region.

Our Mission

What we’re here to do

  • Support local artists through visibility, opportunities, and professional development.
  • Respect the value of artists’ work by supporting paid opportunities and fair compensation, and by not asking artists to work for free.
  • Foster arts based economic opportunities in the Hinton region.
  • Strengthen community through arts events, partnerships, and shared cultural experiences.
  • Foster a welcoming, inclusive arts ecosystem where diverse voices are heard and celebrated.
  • Encourage creative expression across ages, backgrounds, and disciplines.
  • Bring arts into public spaces and everyday life across the Hinton region.

Our Guiding Principles

These principles shape MECA’s programs, partnerships, and approach to community-building.

Community First

We listen to local voices, support grassroots ideas, and build collaborative relationships.

Visibility for Local Artists

We work to elevate the work of local creators and help connect them with audiences, opportunities, and partners.

Creativity in Public Spaces

Arts make communities come alive. We help bring creativity into shared spaces throughout Hinton.

Transparency & Stewardship

As a nonprofit, we operate with clarity, accountability, and community trust at the forefront.

What We Do

MECA supports arts and culture in Hinton through events, collaborations, and community initiatives.

Community Arts Events

Markets, pop-up events, and creative gatherings that bring people together.

Explore events

Artist Support

Resources, visibility and promotions, and opportunities that enable artists to create a sustainable artistic practice.

See programs

Public Art & Partnerships

Collaborations with local organizations, and community partners to bring creativity into shared spaces.

Learn more

Meet our Board & Volunteers

MECA is powered by a dedicated group of volunteers who lead programs, plan community events, and support artists across the region. Learn more about the people behind the organization and how to get involved.

Our Team & Board Volunteer with MECA

Share your idea

Have a project, workshop, or arts initiative you’d like to see in the community? We welcome new ideas and collaborations.

Pitch an idea

Partner or Collaborate

We work with local groups, municipal partners, libraries, schools, and community organizations to bring arts and culture to life.

Become a partner

Get in touch

Whether you’re looking to collaborate, get involved, or learn more about MECA, we’d love to hear from you.