Michigan Legacy Art Park celebrates 30 years of art and community
March 25, 2025
THOMPSONVILLE, Mich. (March 25, 2025) - Michigan Legacy Art Park invites art enthusiasts and community supporters to the annual Legacy Gala on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The fundraising event is a celebration of creativity and partnership and will be held inside the Crystal Center at Crystal Mountain.
This year's Legacy Gala includes a curated dining experience showcasing locally sourced flavors, a sophisticated silent auction featuring unique treasures from local artisans, and a heartfelt appeal to support the Art Park's ongoing mission.
A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Michigan Legacy Art Park's distinguished Legacy Award to Chris and Jim MacInnes, the visionary stewards of Crystal Mountain, along with the Petritz family. This award, established in 2009, recognizes individuals who have made profound contributions to Michigan's arts, culture, and environmental landscape, fostering a spirit of collaboration and inspiration.
“Michigan Legacy Art Park would not exist without the trust, support, and partnership of Crystal Mountain, led by Chris and Jim MacInnes,” said Joan Verla, board president. “As we celebrate our 30th anniversary year, we are delighted to honor Chris and Jim for believing in Michigan Legacy Art Park from the very start.”
Chris MacInnes, a native of northern Michigan, joined the family business with her husband, Jim, in 1985, playing a pivotal role in its transformation into a vibrant community hub.
“By 2000, we realized we were building a community where people not only wanted to play but also live and make memories with family and friends,” said Chris. “Michigan Legacy Art Park is part of this special community, located on 31 acres at the heart of the resort.”
The enduring partnership between Crystal Mountain and the Art Park is a testament to their shared commitment to the arts and environment. Crystal Mountain’s initial $1 per year lease, culminating in the complete land transfer in 2024, secures the Art Park’s permanent home. “The synergy between our organizations has proven the power of collaborative vision,” Chris added. 
Jim and Chris MacInnes have also demonstrated remarkable leadership in sustainable practices, positioning Crystal Mountain as a pioneer in renewable energy and environmental stewardship. Their initiatives include investing in wind energy credits, constructing the Midwest’s first LEED-certified spa, providing electric vehicle charging stations, and implementing a geothermal heating and cooling system.
Their dedication has garnered numerous accolades, including the Climate Change Impact Award from SKI magazine and the National Ski Areas Association, the White Pine Award from the Sierra Club, and individual honors such as the Michigan Governor’s Energy Excellence Award and the Clarence Kroupa Award.
Join us for an evening of celebration and support as we honor the legacy of art and partnership. For event details and sponsorship opportunities, please visit: https://michlegacyartpark.org/events/legacy-gala.
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About Michigan Legacy Art Park: Michigan Legacy Art Park is a nonprofit arts organization. Its mission is to inspire awareness, appreciation, and passion for Michigan’s history, culture, and environment through the arts. The park features a permanent collection of over 50 contemporary sculptures. It is located in a 31-acre forest preserve and hosts thousands of visitors and students annually. It features miles of trails, summer concerts, art and nature workshops, and extensive education programs, and it is open every day of the year.
About Crystal Mountain: Established in 1956, Crystal Mountain is a family-owned, four-season resort destination located 28 miles southwest of Traverse City and a short drive from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The 1,500-acre resort features lodging, dining, downhill and cross-country skiing, two championship golf courses, shopping, award-winning Crystal Spa, Michigan’s only alpine slide, Peak Fitness, the Park at Water’s Edge, Michigan Legacy Art Park, weddings, a conference center, and real estate options.