Webster City Launches “The Arts – Webster City” Brand to Elevate Cultural Tourism

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A new arts and culture brand—The Arts Webster City—has officially launched to shine a spotlight on Webster City's thriving arts and cultural scene. Designed to attract out-of-state visitors, the initiative showcases the area’s robust nonprofit arts organizations, cultural assets, and natural amenities that make Webster City a unique destination in Iowa.

Funded through a 2025 Iowa Tourism Grant by Travel Iowa, the project is managed by the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with key community organizations. Local agency OHP Marketing Services developed branding and promotional materials.

“As our arts and cultural amenities continue to grow—thanks to the dedication of volunteer organizations and strong support from our city and county—so does the need for a cohesive strategy to promote them,” said Anna Woodward, Director of the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce. “This brand helps us fully leverage our creative and experiential assets to reach new audiences.”

The initiative highlights a diverse array of local treasures, including:

• Arts R Alive Sculpture Park
• Legacy Learning Boone River Valley experiential art classes
• Wilson Brewer Historic Park
• Hamilton County Conservation interpretive programming
• Kendall Young Library art collections
• Crafted Farm Fresh spirits at Wildcat Distilling Co.
• Webster City Community Theatre performances
• Hamilton County and Webster City trail systems

“The creative culture of a community shapes identity, fuels economic development, fosters innovation, and preserves local heritage,” said Maureen Seamonds, founding board member of Legacy Learning Boone River Valley. “Promoting the arts is a powerful way for small towns to build vibrant, attractive communities.”

Ketta Lubberstedt-Arjes, Director of Kendall Young Library, added, “As The Arts – Webster City rolls out, it's a fantastic opportunity to spotlight our remarkable art collection and connect it to the city’s broader cultural landscape. This brand bridges the past and present by honoring our history while celebrating our creative growth.”

The brand launch coincides with the 2025 installation of Webster City’s annual rotating sculpture exhibit, most expected to be installed by Tuesday, May 13^th, 2025. This year’s exhibit expands into downtown and West Twin Park, creating a fully walkable Art Walk that immerses visitors in public art and connects them to nearby cultural destinations. The expansion is supported by the City of Webster City, Webster City SSMID District, Availa Bank, First State Bank, and Osweiler’s Fashions.

“Public art is everywhere and for everyone,” said Janet Adams, President of Arts R Alive. “Whether it’s our outdoor sculptures, murals, the community theater, or art studios—just take a stroll through town and you’ll experience it.”

Webster City is a proud member of the Sculpture One Consortium, a Midwest public art collaboration led by Jim Clark of Sioux Falls. The consortium includes Mankato (MN), Eau Claire (WI), Mason City (IA), and Webster City (IA). Each rotating sculpture is available for purchase, with a portion of proceeds and sales tax benefiting the community.

“Public art has become a key driver of tourism nationwide,” Woodward added. “When paired with Webster City’s robust mix of culture and recreation, it creates an irresistible experience for travelers seeking something genuine, creative, and engaging.”

For more information, visit the new The Arts – Webster City webpage launching soon at visitwebstercityiowa.com, or follow the initiative on Facebook at The Arts – Webster City.

Originally posted by Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce via Locable