Newsletter 032
Design creates a framework for all kinds of stories and experiences. In the case of the Strengthening Ministry with Children Coordination Program Conference, the brand we created took the form of conference signage, promotional materials, and even tablecloths! We have the privilege of working with a dynamic team that is leveraging the power of design thinking as a framework for innovation in the church. With a grant from the Lilly Foundation, Dr. Amanda Drury, (Indiana Wesleyan University) and her team are gathering leaders from churches around the country to develop new ways of supporting families in the church as they navigate the challenges they confront in today’s culture.
On Friday, October 20th, we hosted a gallery opening for an exhibit curated by Marion Design Co. and the Marion Arts Commission and made possible in part by the Indiana Arts Commission along with the Community Foundation of Randolph County through an Arts Project Grant. "How Do We Get Here" seeks to pull the first thread toward unraveling the intricate layers of history, culture, and design that have converged to create Marion's contemporary racial landscape. This exhibition recognizes that race is not an abstract concept but an integral part of our residents' everyday experiences.
At the heart of "How Do We Get Here" are the voices and stories of our residents. Through demographic surveying, personal interviews, and thoughtful questions of curiosity, we’ve created a context for individuals to share their experiences, struggles, and triumphs in the context of race. As an individual explores this exhibition, our hope is that "How Do We Get Here" not only informs their understanding but also prompts thoughtful reflection on the experiences and definitions of racism within our community. By acknowledging and learning from our past, we aim to collectively create a more inclusive, empathetic, and equitable future.
The four main sections of the exhibit are:
Marion’s Tapestry Dot Voting: As you explore the exhibition, you will find a designated area where you can place a dot sticker on categories that represent your race and ethnicity, as well as those of your family's origin. This simple yet impactful gesture will contribute to a collective visual representation of the rich tapestry of identities within our community.
Lived Experience: The photographs displayed in this portion of the exhibition serve as a powerful testament to the courageous residents of Marion, IN, who have generously shared their personal experiences and perspectives on the complex issues of race and equality. These individuals have participated in recorded interviews, where they were asked three fundamental questions that delve into the heart of the matter: What is Racism? Have you experienced racism? Are all races equal? The aim of this exhibition is not only to inform but also to prompt introspection and inspire change. It invites you to relate to the narratives shared by your fellow community members and to consider how their stories might compel you to take action in your own way. Each personal account is a call to empathy, a challenge to confront inequality, and an opportunity to contribute to positive change within Marion, IN, and beyond.
Do you see racism? This design display features historic and current artifacts which have faced criticism for their alleged racially charged design elements. The guest is invited to actively participate in this thought-provoking conversation by casting a vote by dropping an orange or purple marble in the glass jar next to each artifact with a vote indicating whether they think the object is offensive or not offensive. The objects include a Yellow Whistle, the Black Sambo children’s book, the Sleeping Mexican statue, a Redskins pendant, the Chiquita Bananas logo, Aunt Jemima syrup, and Saltine crackers.
Finally, each visitor has a chance or provide their response to three questions asking for their reactions to the show and how we move forward with hope. Over the course of November and December, we’ll continue to collect the community’s input.
We invite you to come see the show and interact with the exhibit. Your voice is critical to us understanding our community and how racism has impacted all of us. We invite you to come see the show and interact with the exhibit. Your voice is critical to us understanding our community and how racism has impacted all of us. We’re open T-F 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sat. 11:00-3:00.
“Unreasonable Hospitality” ( a term borrowed from the book title by Will Guidara) is a practice critical to every detail we plan when hosting guests in our studio at the Kennedy Art Center. BLOOM, a women’s conference hosted by United Way and Greater Grant County, asked us to host an event this year designed to celebrate the amazing women in our county. In the Korean culture, the dinner table is a central communal experience. It seemed only fitting that we bring that type of experience to our kitchen. After months of planning the menu with intentional interaction during the dining experience, we opened to doors to a full house of “open to try anything” individuals. Our team of volunteers and MDC leaders served our guests with professionalism and generosity. The energy and joy in the room was contagious! With the grill central to the dining experience, everyone enjoyed dining on Pork Buns, Bulgoki, nine types of Banchan (side dishes including Kimchi), Ramen and dumplings, Spring Rolls, Soju and Korean coffee, to drink, and Strawberry Mochi Mash with homemade sorbet for dessert. We’re so grateful to everyone who joined us and the faithful volunteers who served with grace.
If you’re exploring options for hosting an event for the end of the year or to bring in the new year, consider hosting it at the Kennedy Art Center! Event rental details can be found at https://www.kennedyartcenter.co/event-rental. If you’re interested in hiring our team to create the experience by cooking for you, email us at hello@mariondesign.co. We custom-make every experience to fit what your hopes are for your guests.
What do Pella and Mason City, Iowa have in common with Marion, Indiana?
Both communities are working toward empowering their residents to celebrate its history and vibrant future. Last month we traveled for a three-day vision trip with other local leaders to learn about their growth and unique storytelling to tourists. We were inspired to celebrate what’s happening in our community and continue the momentum of collaboration. More plans are in the works!
We want to be home with family on Small Business Saturday, so we’re celebrating SBS all month! We’ll be featuring gift bags curated by our team with pairings from our collection of products designed to encourage and inspire through December 15th! Each package is a one-of-a-kind so once it’s gone, it won’t be offered again. A 15% discount is applied to the total package! These can be given as an entire set or divided to give as individual gifts. Buy one (or more) for yourself and several as Christmas gifts. Each week we’ll be launching new packages, so watch your email inbox for new package announcements. Come on in and check out the products and purchase instantly or we also hand deliver within a 30 mile radius for just $5! Shipping rates beyond local vary according to location.
Wendy Puffer, NCIDQ, Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer
At age 63 I have my dream job! There isn’t a title for it. I’d call it more of a mindset brought to life. What does it look like? It’s a blanket of hospitality that covers creative contexts designed to bring joy. In one month, I’ve had the privilege of serving people with an amazing team to design dining experiences, spaces, brands, art exhibits, faith-based experiences, community activities, classroom experiences, grant writing ideation, material and finish plans, product buying experiences, strategic planning sessions, and design thinking sessions. When I’m designing for life, there’s no limit to the conversations and opportunities available.
As we approach Thanksgiving, my hope is that wherever you’re doing your work, you’re making it your dream job. Whether it’s changing diapers or leading a multi-million dollar company, the dream is in the “why” of the job. The “why” is always found in the “who.” Who are you serving? Are they receiving the joy from you that the job affords? If not, then wiggle and shift the job a bit. Adapt the parts that you can control. Figure out why you’re doing it and if it’s serving those who deserve your attention. Wiggle and shift so you’re able to settle into joy.
