The Worcester Arts Council (WAC) is looking to redesign its logo, and is inviting Worcester-based creatives to apply to work on the project.

The selected designer will receive a stipend of $1,500. Those interested can learn more or apply by September 30, 2020, at: https://airtable.com/shrGTsm2xImP4gvwR

Worcester Arts Council Chair Yasmin Goris says now is the perfect time for WAC to rebrand.

“The mission of the Worcester Arts Council is to promote excellence, access, education and diversity in the arts, humanities and interpretative sciences to improve the quality of life for Worcester residents and contribute to the economic vitality of our City. And, there is so much energy pulsing through our creative community right now,” Goris says. “We are inspired by the way Worcester’s artists and creatives continue to grow and adapt to the times — there is a lot of passion, vibrance, and talent here. We want the WAC brand to really reflect that back to our community.”

For its logo redesign project, WAC wanted an application process that would be accessible to experienced and up-and-coming creatives alike. The online application is simple, and has flexibility for both professionals and emerging designers to share their ideas, work samples, and information. It was also important to WAC that funds for this project go directly to the local community, so only those who live in Worcester are eligible to apply.

“There are so many local creatives whose work we already admire, and we hope to get to know even more Worcester artists and designers through our logo redesign project. We are excited to see a variety of talent through our open application process — whether it’s someone who already has professional experience in logo design or someone who is just starting out,” said Goris. “First and foremost, WAC wants to work with someone who has fresh ideas and creative chops. The right person will also understand how to effectively collaborate, implement feedback, and work efficiently to deliver a great final product on time.”

WAC will review all applicants in October and make its final selection by November. The Council will then work with the selected designer to complete the logo redesign project by the end of December. WAC will roll out its new logo early next year, around the time the Council announces its 2021 grant recipients.

In addition to the logo redesign project, WAC has several other important activities underway:

• WAC’s 2020 Funding Priorities Survey is live through September 7, 2020. The survey is used to gather community input on arts and culture in Worcester. The answers directly impact how WAC allocates its grant funds.

• There are currently two open seats on the Council. Those interested in serving can learn more or apply any time. Applicants are considered on a rolling basis.

• WAC’s 2021 grant application will be open October 1, 2020 through  November 16, 2020. The Council will also be hosting a grant workshop to assist those interested in applying for Fellowship or Project grants. More details will be announced soon.

• WAC is actively working with the City of Worcester’s Cultural Development office and other local arts and cultural organizations to plan the Worcester Book Festival, which was originally slated for April 2020 but has been postponed to 2021 due to COVID-19.

About the Worcester Arts Council

The Worcester Arts Council (WAC) is a municipal body consisting of nine members appointed by the City Manager. The Council is charged with promoting the cultural affairs of the City of Worcester and allocating funds received by the Council for cultural projects and programs. The mission of the Worcester Arts Council is to promote excellence, access, education and diversity in the arts, humanities and interpretative sciences to improve the quality of life for Worcester residents and contribute to the economic vitality of our City. The Worcester Arts Council is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. For more information visit: www.worcesterma.gov/cultural-development/worcester-arts-council

The current Worcester Arts Council members are Yasmin Goris (Chair), Jennifer Riley (Vice Chair), Lisa Malo (Secretary), Mitchell Perry (Treasurer), Thomas Conroy, David Filar, and George Sedares. The Council currently has two vacant seats. Those interested in serving can learn more or apply any time. Applicants are considered on a rolling basis.