Wenham Museum approached Communications, Ink to help them prepare for their 100th anniversary and the rollout of their Vision 2022. Over the decades, their collections have evolved as has the lens through which they address social issues. Their branding, that had been designed in the late 1990s, no longer reflected this.
From a practical perspective, their current logo was only one-color and hard to scale across digital platforms.
Communications, Ink has been helping non-profits like Wenham Museum rebrand for more than 25 years. It starts with our Deep Dive analysis that takes input from staff, members and donors to fully understand their membership, programming, operations and future goals. During that time we also considered a name change but together we determined the name properly represents who they are and where they are located. The name also has significant recognition. What we uncovered during the Deep Dive was that while much has changed over the past 100 years, the desire to gather, play and learn has remained compelling for all ages.
A NEW LOOK
As a hands-on museum, the Wenham Museum is a place for all ages to play and be playful. Working off this concept, the new icon is an interpretation of a whirlygig. Their new brand focuses on providing timeless experiences for visitors of all ages and interests through child-centered, artifact-drive experiences that interprets our local history. The whirlygig is a colorful, simple, kinetic toy built and enjoyed by children and adults for generations. The icon is a playful interpretation of the vibrant energy it generates for play, creativity, engagement and learning.
THE REVEAL
On September 29th, nearly 100 supporters gathered at the Museum to kickoff the 100th anniversary with a new exhibition. Board President Kennan Anderson, also revealed the new logo as a catalyst for new initiatives and a way to engage new audiences.
“The Wenham Museum is a beloved North Shore institution that has delighted generations with its collections and programming. We are very excited to introduce our updated brand that is grounded in our 100 year history and looks to the future with excitement for what we have to offer families and their friends.”
- Kennan Anderson, President of the Board
All of the guests were treated to a “swag bag” of branded goodies.
TODAY
Our collaboration continues as we have helped the Museum with new letterhead, a mailing to increase visitation and new membership cards that elevate their brand.
We are also working on building out their sub-brands to include logomarks for:
Camp Whirlygig - a collaboration with the Wenham Village Improvement Society.
Centennial Society - a new membership level recognizing those individuals and organizations who represent the heart of philanthropy at the Museum.
100th Anniversary- A logomark to identify events and exhibitions directly tied to the 100th anniversary celebration year.
These materials will soon be seen on invitations, brochures and a fun event in June so please stay tuned and be sure to visit the Wenham Museum!
