ArtMetal

Sounds like a good jump off. In my local area, Munising Michigan, we are trying to take advantage of being a gateway community to our surrounding parks and forests. We are starting a nonprofit organization that will encompass art and culture. A successful model in Marquette Michigan served as an incubator, where private galleries evolved.It's amazing how much talent lies fallow if there is no stimulus to bring it to light. A person familiar in the world of grant writing is a strong asset. Our city leadership is quite aware of the economic advantages of an established art community and very cooperative. Although what is happening in Munising doesn't completely match what your friends are doing, I would say that involving input from all facets of your community would be advantageous.Best of luck.
Frank