The mission of Designing Women is to promote and advance the welfare of Mark Arts by providing financial support and services to the visual arts programs offered by Mark Arts. Designing Women is to work in conjunction with all other volunteer and staff efforts at the discretion of the Mark Arts Board of Trustees, subject to the Bylaws and policies of Mark Arts.
Designing Women was first initiated in 1990. The late Virginia Mastio, then Chair of the Board of Trustees, envisioned a women’s volunteer group organized to produce fundraising social events for what was then The Wichita Center for the Arts. Bill Otton, president at that time, contributed the name Designing Women and the business format. After several informational meetings, potential members were invited, and the fledgling group had its first regular luncheon meeting in January 1991.
The main project for Designing Women is the fall Holiday Tables event in which tables are decorated for display and several special events occur, including a Girls’ Night Out, ARTrageous Party, and Holiday Tea. It is a successful fundraising event and social activity for Mark Arts, raising more than $120,000 in 2022.
Designing Women also uses its members’ unique talents and ideas by supporting many programs and special events at Mark Arts.
Tables Exhibit | Thursday, Nov. 6 – Sunday, Nov. 9
Girls’ Night Out | Thursday, Nov. 6, 6:00 – 10:00 PM
ARTrageous Party | Saturday, Nov. 8, 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Children’s Party | Sunday, Nov. 9, 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Deb Lucia, Executive Chair
Diane Helmer, Executive Vice Chair
Megan McGraw, Secretary
LewJene Schneider, Budget Chair
Pat Thompson, Membership Chair
Susan Taylor, Holiday Tables Co-Chair
Ruthie Williams, Holiday Tables Co-Chair
Leslie Wessel, Advisor
Thursday, April 17
Wichita Country Club | 8501 E. 13th St. N., Wichita, KS 67206
$30 per person
For information about joining Designing Women or volunteering at Holiday Tables, call Jaime Dupy at Mark Arts at (316) 932-1782 or sign up for membership online by following this LINK.
