Mesa Arts Center

Building the Arts in Mesa's Heart

If the development study for the new Mesa Arts Center determined just one thing, it was that community pride would be the driving force behind a campaign. Mesa's citizens not only wanted a performing and visual arts center, they wanted a superior facility - one that would reflect the community's deep appreciation for the arts.

The Building the Arts in Mesa's Heart campaign was launched to secure $3.7 million in gifts to support a new $94 million arts complex. Former Mesa mayor Wayne Brown and his wife Kathye were chosen as campaign chairs. Members of the Mesa Arts Alliance, under the leadership of Joanie Flatt, each made their own generous contributions.

Mesans demonstrated pride in their community and their support for the project with gifts of all sizes.

As the campaign neared its goal, a gift of $1 million not only made the campaign a success, it pushed it way over the top.

Just a few short years before this landmark day, the City of Mesa Arts and Cultural Division retained Young & Company to conduct a capital development study for the project. Young & Company then interviewed 35 community leaders and professionals associated with the existing arts center and found significant support for the $3.7 million campaign. Young & Company also provided counsel throughout the duration of the campaign, advising on next steps and assisting in the planning of special events and announcements.

The beautiful new Mesa Arts Center opened in the heart of downtown Mesa in Spring of 2005. It provides an inspiring venue for international, national, regional and local performing arts groups and gallery exhibits for many years to come.

To learn more about the Mesa Arts Center please visit www.mesaartscenter.org.