Methow Arts Alliance rebrands as Steppe Arts

OKANOGAN — Methow Arts Alliance has changed its name to Steppe Arts, Okanogan County, as the nonprofit arts organization expands its countywide presence and prepares to open a new office in downtown Okanogan.

The organization, founded in 1989, said the new name reflects its growth beyond the Methow Valley and its work in arts education, artist services, performances, public art, creative economy initiatives and community partnerships throughout Okanogan County.

"Our old name has been an important part of our story, but it no longer fully represents all of the communities we serve," Executive Director Sarah Jo Lightner said. "We have been working throughout Okanogan County for decades, particularly through our arts education programs. Steppe Arts allows us to honor where we came from while creating a more inclusive identity for where we are going."

The organization will hold a grand opening for its new office at 111 S. Second Ave. in Okanogan from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. The location will include workshop and gallery space and resources for artists, creative professionals, residents and visitors.

Steppe Arts also plans to reopen its Twisp office later in October with an expanded role as a Twisp Creative District Welcome Center and creative hub.

The name change is the first phase of a broader rebranding. The organization plans to unveil a new visual identity in the coming months.