Mark Arts Partners with Greteman Group
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Wichita, Kan. – Old friends have become new partners. Mark Arts, the former Wichita Center for the Arts, recently named Greteman Group its agency of record. The full-service agency has been working with the center on a new name and branding since July 2015.

The organizations know each other well, with the agency providing past support through the center’s various evolutions. Almost 25 years ago, Greteman Group designed outreach materials for the original Wichita Art Association and then again for its next-generation successor, the Wichita Center for the Arts.

“The time feels right for this latest progression and elevation – to move into its new location and facility with an equally fresh name and identity,” says Sonia Greteman, agency president and creative director. “The name – Mark Arts – conveys the center’s vital contribution to our culture. Artists leave a maker’s mark on their work and I have every confidence this new center will make its mark on us both individually and collectively.”

The Wichita Center for the Arts approached Greteman Group in July 2015 to explore naming and identity. The journey led to a name based on Mary R. Koch’s initials. The late Mary Koch was both a student and benefactor for the Wichita Center for the Arts.
The Wichita Center for the Arts approached Greteman Group in July 2015 to explore naming and identity. The journey led to a name based on Mary R. Koch’s initials. The late Mary Koch was both a student and benefactor for the Wichita Center for the Arts.

The Mark Arts name was unveiled at a groundbreaking on June 22. The $19 million, 40,000-square-foot facility will sit on the southwest corner of 13th and Rock, Wichita’s fifth-busiest intersection. The name fits this more accessible location with its friendly, non-institutional tone. It’s memorable, easy to say – and doesn’t limit the center’s outreach geographically. Mark Arts has attitude. Perhaps best of all, it speaks to people. Inviting all to participate, to make their mark.

“Art enhances both our community and our creative industry,” says Katy Dorrah, Mark Arts executive director. “It makes our region a place where creativity can thrive and grow. We’re eager to develop outreach with Greteman Group that conveys this vibrant spirit whatever the platform: exhibitions, classes and workshops in our school, membership recruitment campaigns and more.”

When the center opens in 2018, all ages and skill levels will be encouraged to roll up their sleeves and dive into their medium of choice. Whether that’s throwing a pot, painting a picture or creating a sculpture. For those still finding their muse, they can simply come peruse the gallery or book something in its new meeting space.

“This won’t be just a building,” says Greteman. “It’s an idea made manifest. Mark Arts will move you.”

This promotional video provided a dynamic way to share the new identity and stoke interest in the many creative outlets available through Mark Arts.
This promotional video provided a dynamic way to share the new identity and stoke interest in the many creative outlets available through Mark Arts.

PHOTOGRAPHY FOR DOWNLOAD https://www.gretemangroup.com/press/mark-arts-partners-with-greteman-group/

COVERAGE: Bulldog Reporter 8.1.16