Our Staff:

Madera County Arts Council’s staff is here to help! Whether you’re calling with a question or visiting the gallery, our team is available Tuesday–Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM to assist you. Stop by or give us a call—we’re always happy to connect!

Tamar Karkazian, MBA, DBA: Executive Director

Tamar Karkazian is the Executive Director of the Madera County Arts Council. With a distinguished background in nonprofit leadership, Karkazian brings a wealth of experience and vision to the Arts Council as it continues to expand its impact across Madera County. Karkazian most recently served as the Executive Director at Habitat for Humanity Tulare/Kings Counties, where she directed community outreach and development initiatives aimed at expanding access to affordable housing. Prior to that, she held a key role at the Central California Blood Center, where she managed donor engagement and built strong community partnerships. Her career has been defined by a passion for service, strategic growth, and building inclusive programs that uplift and empower. Her leadership is expected to further strengthen partnerships, enhance educational outreach, and elevate the visibility of local artists. MCAC continues to grow its programming, including the Teen Arts Council, Artists in Schools, and the celebrated exhibitions at the Circle Gallery.

Areej Latif: Director of Programs and Operations

Areej Latif is the Director of Programs and Operations at the Madera County Arts Council (MCAC), where she champions arts education and community engagement. Born in Los Angeles, Areej was raised in the United Arab Emirates, where she cultivated a deep appreciation for the arts and gained experience working with nonprofit organizations such as the Sharjah Art Foundation. Since moving to Madera in November 2020, Areej has brought a global perspective and a passion for community-building through the arts. Her professional journey with MCAC began as a teaching artist and evolved into key roles including Gallery Manager and Outreach Coordinator, ultimately leading to her current leadership position. In addition to her work with MCAC, Areej served as an Art Teacher with the Madera Unified School District, where she furthered her commitment to arts education by fostering creativity and artistic expression among students. Areej holds a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from the University of Sharjah and a Master of Arts in Higher Education Student Affairs from Grand Canyon University. Her work is driven by a steadfast belief in the transformative power of the arts to inspire, connect, and empower communities.

Penelope Montemayor: Administration

Penelope Montemayor has been an Assistant Administrator at the Madera County Arts Council for two years. She holds an Associate for Transfer in Studio Arts and Art History and is starting toward her Bachelor’s. She has lived in Madera County all of her life and loves to travel whenever she can. Every week she volunteers in local organizations and enjoys bringing her love for the arts out into the community! Penelope started out at MCAC through an internship program and eventually got a job as Administration Assistant after high school. From there, she has worked diligently in all things Madera County Arts Council whether that be through marketing, social media, outreach, or anything in and out of the gallery! Additionally, Penelope works alongside the Teen Arts Council (TAC), helping our Madera County teens grow in leadership and community involvement!

Jesus Ortiz: Administration

Jesus Ortiz is an Assistant Administrator at the Madera County Arts Council, a position they have held since March 2024. Jesus began their journey with the gallery as a volunteer in late October 2023 and officially joined the team as part-time staff in March 2024. That same month, Jesus also started working as a part-time teaching artist with the Madera Unified School District. Jesus holds a bachelor’s degree in Studio Arts. Their artistic background instills a profound commitment to fostering environments where creativity can flourish. They are committed to carrying out their role with enthusiasm and dedication, consistently striving to uplift and support others through the transformative power of art. Outside the gallery, Jesus enjoys watching movies, films, and anime, as well as exploring new cuisines and cultures. They approach life with curiosity and a love of learning, always open to new experiences and perspectives.

Contact Us:

Location: 424 N. Gateway Drive, Madera, CA 93637

Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10a-6p

Phone: (559) 661-7005 Fax: (559) 661-7901