Newsletter 036
So many ideas need good design! When a client invites us into a place of curiosity, we are compelled to ensure we have a clear understanding of what's true about the problem they’re tackling and the people they’re serving.
We not only bring in a new visual lens, but we engage in the pursuit of problem-solving that digs deep into human behavior discovered only through an empathy-driven design process.
From logos for a small business to ongoing brand identity partnerships with organizations and corporations, we ensure the essence of your mission is elevated. The breadth of our work is seen in buildings and in lived experiences, through design thinking sessions and strategic planning.
This recent window graphics installation was created through a partnership with Halstead Architects and IHC. The grand opening for their renovated facility is May 22nd.
Join us for a casual evening at the Kennedy Art Center on April 19th | 7 - 9 pm. This exhibit sponsored by the Marion Arts Commission, Indiana Arts Commission, and The Community Foundation of Randolph County invites viewers to explore the interstitial spaces that often go unnoticed in our daily lives. It challenges conventional notions of space and invites contemplation on the significance of what lies between.
Twenty-three artists from diverse backgrounds were invited to interpret the theme, Space Between, in their unique way, using various mediums such as sculpture, installation, painting, photography, and multimedia. The work ranges from depictions of literal spaces we can see and touch to representations of symbolic divides such as the chasm that separates dreams from reality. This exhibition also prompts reflection on the in-between liminal spaces we experience in life, from one stage to the next.
As you wander through the first-floor and lower-level galleries, we invite curious questions into the gallery space through conversations and self-reflection. Ponder the diverse interpretations of the theme by the works of art created by local and national artists and explore the space between your lived experience and the message you understand through their artistic expression.
Keep reading! The artist who created the cover art is featured next!
Emily Dexter, Copywriting Intern 2023
After working as a copywriting intern for Marion Design Co., my biggest takeaway can be summed up in one of the MDC team's favorite phrases: you are the answer. To me, this short sentence is a powerful reminder of the creative potential of each and every person. It is a reminder of our agency in the world, of the privilege we have to influence our communities' futures for the better.
Since interning with Marion Design Co., I have taken a full-time role as the content marketing coordinator at Good Party, a national organization building free tools and community for people across the United States who want to make a difference by running for office outside of the two-party system. This role reminds me of the ripple effect that can happen when local leaders become empowered and change begins happening, one community at a time.
My artwork in the upcoming exhibit, titled "Girl to Woman," marks a full circle moment. This work is a meditation on coming of age — a subject I've been thinking about more and more, as I come up on the first anniversary of my graduation from IWU. To me, the art making process is closely aligned with the process of deep thinking. The same holds true for writing. Whether I find myself making visual or written art, my mind goes into a similar flow state, using the medium in front of me to puzzle through a particular question or experience.
You’re invited to spend a special evening at the Kennedy Art Center experiencing a curated Italian dinner with friends made just for SLŌ Supper by Michael Barmes, popular chef of the Tomahawk in Marion! Michael’s been in the restaurant industry for 7 years. He’s worked as a professional chef for 5 of those 7 years. He’s constantly working on his craft trying new cuisines out from different cultures. His lifelong goal is to make everything completely from scratch at least once. He’s very excited to cook an Italian dinner experience for you all at the Kennedy Arts Center! Thanks so much for the opportunity!
Reservations close by midnight, Friday, April 19th, so be sure and make your reservation today! Seating is very limited!
Make it stand out
Host your special event at the Kennedy Art Center! Whether it’s a graduation open house, wedding reception, or bridal shower, we’ll swing open the kitchen garage door as a welcome mat for your guests. When you rent out the kitchen and dining space or the whole gallery for your event, you’ll have access to our dinnerware, equipment, appliances, small appliances (Bunn coffeemaker, Vitamix, Cuisinart food processor, TK-1 Cappucino maker, etc.) and more! The lower-level gallery will be open later this month so you have even more space to host larger events! Go to kennedyartcenter.co to request a tour or book your next event!
Sunglasses, jewelry, tote bags, and more! We’re closing out our blue blocker and sunglasses line so if you’ve had your eye on a pair in the store, stop by our studio or purchcase them online! We’re adding new lines and restocking favorites, so check back often!
Angie Thompson, Chief Financial Officer
Can you feel it? Spring is in the air! The days are getting longer, the sun is a little warmer, and everything just seems to come alive again. As a designer, I find this time of year rejuvenating and inspiring. There's something about the vibrant colors, the gentle breeze, and the sound of birds chirping that just sparks inspiration. It's like nature's hitting the reset button on my creativity, reminding me of the beauty and possibility that surrounds us.
The power of connection can be transformative in our lives. As we grow into adulthood and beyond, the more we connect with our community and those that we do life with, the more trusting and interdependent we become. Even from birth we were meant to depend on those around us. Babies cry to let those around them know that they need them. As we grow and go through life, young adults and adults alike react naturally when we need people. We cry when we miss someone in our lives, we are angry when someone hurts us or those around us, we are excited when we see someone special. Our bodies naturally produce these emotions.
So, as we trust, grow comfortable, and learn to depend on one another, our potential to thrive, create, and then help others around us only increases. It’s a truly powerful thing when we meet new people, discover the attributes of those around us, and impact our communities through interdependence with each other.
