Daybreak Arts
Daybreak Arts, formerly Poverty & the Arts, has been transforming homelessness in Nashville through creative arts since 2014. The nonprofit provides artistic and economic opportunities to advance new models of economic justice and community that are sustainable and equitable for those impacted by homelessness.
The Challenge
As the organization evolved from a college community service project to a sustainable nonprofit, its brand no longer reflected the vibrant artist community it served. Founder Nicole Brandt Minyard knew it was time for the organization to conduct a full brand refresh, including a new name, that communicated the organization’s mission and impact more clearly.
Additionally, Daybreak Arts required a new website that enhanced user experience, integrated e-commerce for art sales, and supported fundraising and community engagement efforts. The challenge was to integrate a cohesive brand identity and develop a digital presence that honored the artists, elevated their work, and increased revenue through donations and art sales.
The Deliverables
- Brand refresh for their annual fundraising gala that integrated well with the newly renamed organization
- Custom website design and development with improved navigation and clean, modern aesthetics
- E-commerce integration to streamline online art sales and boost fundraising revenue
- Marketing strategy and materials to increase community awareness and engagement
Brand Refresh & New Name
Mane Impact worked closely with Daybreak Arts and their team to develop a new brand for their fundraiser that genuinely reflected the organization’s growth and commitment to artists experiencing homelessness. The new name and brand identity system communicate creativity, empowerment, and community, setting the stage for stronger recognition and impact.
Improved User Experience & eCommerce Integration
Mane Impact redesigned Daybreak Arts’ website to prioritize seamless, intuitive user experiences that would support online sales. Key UX improvements included simplified navigation menus, clear calls-to-action, and mobile-responsive design to reach visitors on any device. We organized content with thoughtful visual hierarchy and easy-to-scan layouts, allowing users to quickly find artist profiles, event information, and ways to support the nonprofit.
Highlighting Artists & Artwork with Purpose
Daybreak Arts’ mission is deeply rooted in the artists they serve, so Mane Impact prioritized human-centered design to bring their stories front and center. The website design uses generous white space and clean layouts to let the artwork take visual prominence without distraction.
Taking feedback and input from the stakeholders and artists, we integrated artist bios, testimonials, and behind-the-scenes narratives throughout the site to create an emotional connection between visitors and the creative individuals behind the work.
Thoughtful typography and imagery choices emphasize authenticity and dignity, reinforcing the nonprofit’s commitment to empowering artists experiencing homelessness. This storytelling approach not only celebrates creativity but also fosters empathy and community support.
Strategic Marketing & Community Awareness
Beyond design and development, Mane Impact provided Daybreak Arts with marketing strategy consulting aimed at increasing visibility and engagement within the Nashville community and beyond. We crafted marketing materials that aligned with the refreshed brand identity, designed digital and print assets to support outreach efforts, and provided guidance on building recognition and excitement around their newly branded fundraiser.
Our strategic recommendations included targeted community awareness campaigns leveraging social media, email marketing, and local partnerships to amplify Daybreak Arts’ story, attract new supporters, and drive fundraising success. This holistic approach ensured the nonprofit’s mission and impact reached wider audiences, fostering sustainable growth.
