Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) was founded in 1873 with the understanding that art and design are essential to our daily lives. As MassArt looked ahead to its 150th anniversary – and to an increasingly competitive higher education landscape – it saw the need for a powerhouse brand, website, and communications program that articulates the College’s undeniable relevance, legacy, and value.

We started our work with a discovery process that included stakeholder interviews, workshops, competitive analysis, and a deep website and communications audit. We built MassArt’s messaging strategy around the idea of “An uncommon community working for the common good.” This concept celebrates MassArt’s distinction as the nation’s only freestanding public college of art and design; the passion of its student, faculty, and alumni community; and its impact across Massachusetts and beyond.

The messaging toolkit became the foundation for a range of communications deliverables: a robust new website, a suite of admissions materials anchored by a beautiful, photo-rich flagship viewbook, marketing support for MassArt’s Professional and Continuing Education offerings, and a dedicated messaging platform and microsite to celebrate the College’s 150th anniversary. We supported it all by partnering closely across campus, leading trainings, education sessions, town halls, and more.

Today, MassArt speaks with a new confidence and clarity, bringing its mission, relevance, and impact to the forefront of its story.