The “Love Art” membership drive is bringing more affordable dues and perks to Madison Arts Council (MAC) supporters.

“We’re excited to be building our membership this year. With all we were able to do last year, we planted a seed,” MAC President Beth Ridgeway said. “Now we are hoping to grow with the support of the community.”

MAC has added three new membership levels — one exclusively for artists and two for general supporters. At the “Art Enthusiast” level, members receive discounts to ticketed MAC events, along with free and discount offers year-round from local businesses. Annual fee is $50.

In a new MAC position, membership chairman Shrail Heinrich is enthusiastic about partnering with local businesses in a collaboration to help grow the arts in Madison. “To have businesses partner with us to raise support is truly a reflection of the team spirit of our community,” Heinrich said.

All membership levels will receive the quarterly e-newsletter, “MAC Connections,” and notifications of upcoming MAC events.

The “Love Art” drive will lead to MAC’s first 2013 event, Art 4 Paws on April 6.

“One of my favorite things about the redesign of the website is having a directory in which artists can be featured,” Ridgeway said. “With our new membership fees, this is an affordable solution for the talent in our area. It’s a win/win for people looking for local artists. It’s all online and easy to find.”

Heinrich encourages interested individuals to serve on the MAC board. “Whatever your passion, we have a spot for you can shine,” Heinrich said. “The arts are such a vital part of our community.”

In 2012, MAC sponsored Madison Gazebo Concerts, assisted in extending the SPACES sculpture trail to Madison and gave more than $2,000 to Madison teachers for arts education.

In 2013, MAC hopes to found two college scholarships for seniors in Madison City Schools.

MAC meets on second Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at The 347 at 347 Hughes Road.

For more information, email to membership@artsmadison.org or visit artsmadison.org.