become a
FRIEND OF NOTO ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
contribute to
NOTO ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
The NOTO Arts and Entertainment District is excited to have this formal campaign to engage the community and seek their support to help the district meet its goals. Act now! Your gift, no matter the amount, will make a real impact. All contributions include a Friends of NOTO membership.
BE PART OF THE STORY
A CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
contribute to
NOTO
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
The NOTO Arts and Entertainment District is excited to have this formal campaign to engage the community and seek their support to help the district meet its goals. Act now! Your gift, no matter the amount, will make a real impact. All contributions include a Friends of NOTO membership.
The Story of NOTO
The resurgence of the North Topeka business district into the NOTO Arts and Entertainment District has been nothing short of remarkable. This historical part of the city had experienced neglect and blight for years. Recent efforts from community leaders, civic champions, local business owners, and other stakeholders have strived to enhance the area as an arts and entertainment district that is an eclectic mix of art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants mixed with various trade and service businesses, and bookend by two thriving non-profit organizations. NOTO is an area that attracts visitors from across the city as well as from the surrounding region.
NOTO is a story of transformation and community pride, but there is still much to do. With support of the Redbud Foundation and Heartland Visioning, a master plan was developed to frame a vision for district planning. This vision is well aligned with the Momentum 2022 initiative that includes the goal of creating vibrant and attractive places, of which advancing NOTO’s master plan is a specific objective.
The story of NOTO – its vision as a vibrant and prospering arts and entertainment district – continues to be written. This campaign is about furthering NOTO’s continued development and enhancement.
Why NOTO?
NOTO is an attitude ….
- that anything is possible
- of collaboration
- that values uniqueness and authenticity
NOTO is a catalyst ….
- for the arts of all types
- that fosters a sense of belonging; a sense of community
- to instill and inspire community change through service and collaboration
- for the constancy of change as an opportunity for growth
NOTO is a place of history where ….
- the spirit of the early adventurers is evident in current day entrepreneurship
- the beauty of yesterday influences design today
- historic buildings and artifacts are valued and appreciated
The NOTO capital campaign is ambitious, but ambition is necessary to accomplish things over the next three years that will not only enhance the district and the quality of life in Topeka, but will enhance NOTO’s relationship and contribution as part of a dynamic regional core with Downtown and the Kansas Riverfront. We offer the leadership and fortitude to meet the vision and accomplish the goals. With your help, we will raise $2.1 million to address three fundamental areas:
Redbud Park: $900,000
NOTO Arts Center: $210,000
NOTO District: $990,000
NOTO has a story to tell; it is a story of transformation. But the story is not yet complete. We ask that you continue to help us author our story through a consideration of generous support.
The Story of NOTO
The resurgence of the North Topeka business district into the NOTO Arts and Entertainment District has been nothing short of remarkable. This historical part of the city had experienced neglect and blight for years. Recent efforts from community leaders, civic champions, local business owners, and other stakeholders have strived to enhance the area as an arts and entertainment district that is an eclectic mix of art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants mixed with various trade and service businesses, and bookend by two thriving non-profit organizations. NOTO is an area that attracts visitors from across the city as well as from the surrounding region.
NOTO is a story of transformation and community pride, but there is still much to do. With support of the Redbud Foundation and Heartland Visioning, a master plan was developed to frame a vision for district planning. This vision is well aligned with the Momentum 2022 initiative that includes the goal of creating vibrant and attractive places, of which advancing NOTO’s master plan is a specific objective.
The story of NOTO – its vision as a vibrant and prospering arts and entertainment district – continues to be written. This campaign is about furthering NOTO’s continued development and enhancement.
Why NOTO?
NOTO is an attitude ….
- that anything is possible
- of collaboration
- that values uniqueness and authenticity
NOTO is a catalyst ….
- for the arts of all types
- that fosters a sense of belonging; a sense of community
- to instill and inspire community change through service and collaboration
- for the constancy of change as an opportunity for growth
NOTO is a place of history where ….
- the spirit of the early adventurers is evident in current day entrepreneurship
- the beauty of yesterday influences design today
- historic buildings and artifacts are valued and appreciated
The NOTO capital campaign is ambitious, but ambition is necessary to accomplish things over the next three years that will not only enhance the district and the quality of life in Topeka, but will enhance NOTO’s relationship and contribution as part of a dynamic regional core with Downtown and the Kansas Riverfront. We offer the leadership and fortitude to meet the vision and accomplish the goals. With your help, we will raise $2.1 million to address three fundamental areas:
Redbud Park: $900,000
NOTO Arts Center: $210,000
NOTO District: $990,000
NOTO has a story to tell; it is a story of transformation. But the story is not yet complete. We ask that you continue to help us author our story through a consideration of generous support.
Illustration by Barbara Waterman-Peters
Redbud Park
Campaign Goal: $900,000
The Redbud Foundation donated the land located to the east of the NOTO Arts Center. Plans have been developed and fundraising is currently underway to transform this industrial parking lot and storage facility into the Redbud Park. As the location of the park is in an arts and entertainment district, it will feature various outdoor sculptures, including a commemorative piece honoring Claire Swogger, local artist and wife of Glenn Swogger, Jr. of the Redbud Foundation. The park will feature a commemorative piece to the band Kansas, pieces dedicated to other notable artists from the area, a facility for performance art, interactive play activities for children and, of course, redbud trees!
The Story of the Art
Barbara Waterman-Peters became the first core artist in NOTO with the founding of Studio 831 in 2010.Artists are interesting people in that they are resourceful and able to reinvent working areas with repurposed materials and a coat of paint! They are also intriguing in that their comfort in a space depends on its energy and arrangement. We have in NOTO such a concentration of talent and creativity...some work in very polished manners, others in a raw, more urgent style. But all of it is worth looking at, listening to, and talking about. The spirit of the NOTO Arts & Entertainment District is in its eclectic atmosphere. Life brings changes and NOTO is proof of that in a microcosm. Ever in flux, its heartbeat displays energy, excitement, and movement. I am cheered by having the opportunity to paint, to spend time with other artists, and to be fortunate enough to have my studio in NOTO.
Redbud Park
Campaign Goal: $900,000
The Redbud Foundation donated the land located to the east of the NOTO Arts Center. Plans have been developed and fundraising is currently underway to transform this industrial parking lot and storage facility into the Redbud Park. As the location of the park is in an arts and entertainment district, it will feature various outdoor sculptures, including a commemorative piece honoring Claire Swogger, local artist and wife of Glenn Swogger, Jr. of the Redbud Foundation. The park will feature a commemorative piece to the band Kansas, pieces dedicated to other notable artists from the area, a facility for performance art, interactive play activities for children and, of course, redbud trees!
The Story of the Art
Barbara Waterman-Peters became the first core artist in NOTO with the founding of Studio 831 in 2010.Artists are interesting people in that they are resourceful and able to reinvent working areas with repurposed materials and a coat of paint! They are also intriguing in that their comfort in a space depends on its energy and arrangement. We have in NOTO such a concentration of talent and creativity...some work in very polished manners, others in a raw, more urgent style. But all of it is worth looking at, listening to, and talking about. The spirit of the NOTO Arts & Entertainment District is in its eclectic atmosphere. Life brings changes and NOTO is proof of that in a microcosm. Ever in flux, its heartbeat displays energy, excitement, and movement. I am cheered by having the opportunity to paint, to spend time with other artists, and to be fortunate enough to have my studio in NOTO.
Illustration by Staci Dawn Ogle
NOTO District
Campaign Goal: $990,000
There are many opportunities throughout the district that would enhance overall attractiveness to visitors. While NOTO is already a main attraction in Topeka, by enhancing beautification, safety, and visitor accommodations, NOTO can be even more attractive and visitor friendly. Many of the identified projects involve areas owned by other entities that will require collaboration and agreements to accomplish. Generally, this will include beautification of public places and parking enhancements.
Parking — A parking study presented in February 2018 identified several significant issues for the district, including insufficient public parking during special events, poor condition of public parking, inadequate lighting, and no wayfinding to parking lots. These and other issues created parking inefficiencies and safety hazards for both pedestrians and vehicles. NOTO is exploring the potential of other properties that may be used for parking beyond the street and the county parking lot. These properties, like the county parking lot, will require lighting and ongoing maintenance. Signage to all parking areas is needed throughout the district.
Operations — The NOTO Arts and Entertainment District requires resources for ongoing management, maintenance, and upkeep of our facilities and district. Three years of unrestricted operating funds will give us the flexibility to address the district’s most urgent needs, whether they be events, staffing, infrastructure, or other critical issues.
Beautification of Public Space — The beautification of public space is broad and encompasses an array of initiatives, such as decorative lights and banners throughout the district. NOTO enjoys remarkable murals, but an enhanced presence of public art will add to the area. Public art also provides the signage that conveys a sense of place for the district, that is, an area identified by visitors, residents, and area businesses as a special place to visit, live, and do business. This includes the creation of an annual rotating sculpture competition that would place art throughout the district, art and banners on light poles, and the painting of utility boxes. It also includes incorporating the NOTO abbreviation and the logo throughout, such as on banners, signage, and the grain elevators located at the north end of the Kansas Avenue/Quincy bridge.
The Story of the Art
Staci Dawn Ogle is relatively new to the art scene, but has already made her mark as an artist and advocate in the community. I find it incredibly rewarding to help cultivate change and positive growth for our city. NOTO is quickly growing and the history of our city is changing, to be a part of that is empowering. When I started creating art a little over 10 years ago, it was a huge influence in my life. I wanted to be in a city that was going to grow with my children, and I understood in order for that to happen, I need to be a part of that change. NOTO has been the bridge to help me do that, and my art has been my tool. Together we have created a catalyst of positive change in Topeka that benefits everyone involved. Because of NOTO, I was able to find my true colors, and now I use that positivity to paint the world.
NOTO District
Campaign Goal: $990,000
There are many opportunities throughout the district that would enhance overall attractiveness to visitors. While NOTO is already a main attraction in Topeka, by enhancing beautification, safety, and visitor accommodations, NOTO can be even more attractive and visitor friendly. Many of the identified projects involve areas owned by other entities that will require collaboration and agreements to accomplish. Generally, this will include beautification of public places and parking enhancements.
Parking — A parking study presented in February 2018 identified several significant issues for the district, including insufficient public parking during special events, poor condition of public parking, inadequate lighting, and no wayfinding to parking lots. These and other issues created parking inefficiencies and safety hazards for both pedestrians and vehicles. NOTO is exploring the potential of other properties that may be used for parking beyond the street and the county parking lot. These properties, like the county parking lot, will require lighting and ongoing maintenance. Signage to all parking areas is needed throughout the district.
Operations — The NOTO Arts and Entertainment District requires resources for ongoing management, maintenance, and upkeep of our facilities and district. Three years of unrestricted operating funds will give us the flexibility to address the district’s most urgent needs, whether they be events, staffing, infrastructure, or other critical issues.
Beautification of Public Space — The beautification of public space is broad and encompasses an array of initiatives, such as decorative lights and banners throughout the district. NOTO enjoys remarkable murals, but an enhanced presence of public art will add to the area. Public art also provides the signage that conveys a sense of place for the district, that is, an area identified by visitors, residents, and area businesses as a special place to visit, live, and do business. This includes the creation of an annual rotating sculpture competition that would place art throughout the district, art and banners on light poles, and the painting of utility boxes. It also includes incorporating the NOTO abbreviation and the logo throughout, such as on banners, signage, and the grain elevators located at the north end of the Kansas Avenue/Quincy bridge.
The Story of the Art
Staci Dawn Ogle is relatively new to the art scene, but has already made her mark as an artist and advocate in the community. I find it incredibly rewarding to help cultivate change and positive growth for our city. NOTO is quickly growing and the history of our city is changing, to be a part of that is empowering. When I started creating art a little over 10 years ago, it was a huge influence in my life. I wanted to be in a city that was going to grow with my children, and I understood in order for that to happen, I need to be a part of that change. NOTO has been the bridge to help me do that, and my art has been my tool. Together we have created a catalyst of positive change in Topeka that benefits everyone involved. Because of NOTO, I was able to find my true colors, and now I use that positivity to paint the world.
Illustration by Shelly Bedsaul
NOTO Arts Center
Campaign Goal: $210,000
Purchased in 2014 through a donation provided by Stan and Jodi Teeter, the NOTO Arts Center serves many functions for the district. It is the administrative office for the executive director and other staff. It is a meeting place for the district, including the NOTO Board, its various committees, and other meetings related to district issues. It is an event venue available for lease. It includes the Morris Art Gallery, which features works of local and regional artists with a new show every month. Finally, the Arts Center is the location for an array of art classes and educational events. Thus, the Arts Center plays many roles, but its capacity as a resource to the district and the community can be enhanced with renovations that have been identified by the NOTO Board. In addition to building improvements that will enhance energy efficiency, access, and visitor experience, the following are some particular areas of renovations:
Brewster Community Room — The Brewster Community Room is a 912-square foot multi-purpose room used for classes, meetings, presentations, and social events. With 13-foot ceilings and a concrete floor, the acoustics in the room are poor, making it less than adequate for some of its intended uses. While the installation of a sound system will help, the room should also have sound dampening panels placed on the ceiling and the walls.
Morris Art Gallery — The 450-square foot Morris Art Gallery is a beautiful venue to showcase art, mostly from local and regional artists. However, there is excessive natural light that is harmful to displayed art and can compromise viewing. An installation of hard surface covers on the large windows will limit natural lighting and increase installation space.
Basement — The basement is as large as the main floor of the Arts Center, but currently is only being used for storage. With the proposed renovations, the space will include a 675-square foot multi-purpose room for classes and other activities, and several smaller spaces for art studios, a bathroom, and dedicated storage space.
Outside — The back and south exterior sections of the Center have generally been unkept, hidden from the public, and underutilized as venue spaces. Parking is a premium in NOTO, so we want to keep most of it, but we can make it a more appealing and safer place with landscape plantings, painting, and lighting. The privacy fence on the south side will be replaced with a gated wrought iron fence that can be opened for First Friday Art Walks and other events. The courtyard area can serve as a staging area for vendors, art displays, or simply as an extension of the Arts Center for events.
The Story of the Art
Shelly Bedsaul was an artist in the area before it was known as NOTO. On first seeing North Kansas Ave. in 2003, I could immediately see its potential, in spite of time’s neglect. As visual artists, we take colored mud and manipulate it into something beautiful. As more artists joined, the energy and camaraderie increased, bringing the bones of old architecture back to life, raw materials manipulated into a thing of beauty. Folks come to NOTO for the opportunity to rub elbows with the weird, only to find our thoughts are not much different from their own. We teach ‘normal’ people how to see what they already knew existed.
NOTO Arts Center
Campaign Goal: $210,000
Purchased in 2014 through a donation provided by Stan and Jodi Teeter, the NOTO Arts Center serves many functions for the district. It is the administrative office for the executive director and other staff. It is a meeting place for the district, including the NOTO Board, its various committees, and other meetings related to district issues. It is an event venue available for lease. It includes the Morris Art Gallery, which features works of local and regional artists with a new show every month. Finally, the Arts Center is the location for an array of art classes and educational events. Thus, the Arts Center plays many roles, but its capacity as a resource to the district and the community can be enhanced with renovations that have been identified by the NOTO Board. In addition to building improvements that will enhance energy efficiency, access, and visitor experience, the following are some particular areas of renovations:
Brewster Community Room — The Brewster Community Room is a 912-square foot multi-purpose room used for classes, meetings, presentations, and social events. With 13-foot ceilings and a concrete floor, the acoustics in the room are poor, making it less than adequate for some of its intended uses. While the installation of a sound system will help, the room should also have sound dampening panels placed on the ceiling and the walls.
Morris Art Gallery — The 450-square foot Morris Art Gallery is a beautiful venue to showcase art, mostly from local and regional artists. However, there is excessive natural light that is harmful to displayed art and can compromise viewing. An installation of hard surface covers on the large windows will limit natural lighting and increase installation space.
Basement — The basement is as large as the main floor of the Arts Center, but currently is only being used for storage. With the proposed renovations, the space will include a 675-square foot multi-purpose room for classes and other activities, and several smaller spaces for art studios, a bathroom, and dedicated storage space.
Outside — The back and south exterior sections of the Center have generally been unkept, hidden from the public, and underutilized as venue spaces. Parking is a premium in NOTO, so we want to keep most of it, but we can make it a more appealing and safer place with landscape plantings, painting, and lighting. The privacy fence on the south side will be replaced with a gated wrought iron fence that can be opened for First Friday Art Walks and other events. The courtyard area can serve as a staging area for vendors, art displays, or simply as an extension of the Arts Center for events.
The Story of the Art
Shelly Bedsaul was an artist in the area before it was known as NOTO. On first seeing North Kansas Ave. in 2003, I could immediately see its potential, in spite of time’s neglect. As visual artists, we take colored mud and manipulate it into something beautiful. As more artists joined, the energy and camaraderie increased, bringing the bones of old architecture back to life, raw materials manipulated into a thing of beauty. Folks come to NOTO for the opportunity to rub elbows with the weird, only to find our thoughts are not much different from their own. We teach ‘normal’ people how to see what they already knew existed.