Modernizing a Government Arts Fund Website to Reflect a Dynamic Cultural Mission

The Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF) website had fallen behind modern standards after years of neglect, lacking the visual appeal and functionality necessary to reflect their role as a vital and dynamic resource for the arts community.

The goal was to design a visually exciting and modern interface that:

• Gave the impression of a current, relevant, and impactful organization.
• Aligned with OCAF's mission of supporting cultural and arts initiatives in Ontario.
• Was templated for easy integration into their CMS system.

1. Modern Visual Redesign
   
   1. I designed a visually dynamic and engaging interface to showcase OCAF's impact. I used bold typography, vibrant imagery of the projects they've funded, and interactive elements to create an exciting aesthetic that appealed to both arts organizations and government stakeholders.
2. ‍User-Centered & Accessible Interface
   
   1. I focused on creating an intuitive and accessible interface that complied with AODA and WCAG standards. The navigation was simplified to make it easy for users to find funding information, application guidelines, and success stories, making the site a more functional resource for its audience.
3. ‍Templated CMS Design
   
   1. To ensure a seamless and cost-effective implementation, I designed the entire website as a templated solution that could be integrated directly into OCAF's existing CMS. This provided them with a flexible and scalable design they could manage long-term.

• Enhanced Perception: Delivered a modern, visually engaging website that repositioned OCAF as a relevant and impactful organization within Ontario's cultural sector.
• User Engagement: Improved usability and accessibility, making the website more appealing and functional for cultural organizations seeking support.
• Client Satisfaction: OCAF praised the design as a significant improvement, aligning with their goals to better communicate their mission and engage their audience.

Modernizing a public-facing government website is less about decoration and more about rebranding perception. The visual energy of the new design directly translated into how OCAF was perceived—as a dynamic, modern supporter of the arts, not a dated bureaucracy. This project reinforced that for mission-driven organizations, design is a direct reflection of their vitality and relevance.