BALTIMORE (August 10, 2005) – Vertis today announced the launch of a new Web site, www.ForteStudio.com, for Forté Studio, Vertis' full service creative resource in Minneapolis. The studio features photography, digital image creation, photo illustration, and high-end retouching and is located in a 6,500 sq. ft. space in the city's recently gentrified Milling District. “We're pleased that the new Web site is now available so that our customers can take a good look at the spacious, well-equipped, and beautifully designed studio,” says Michael Kalman, vice president, premedia operations for Vertis. “Best of all, the Web site gives visitors an inside look into the creative vision and collaborative efforts of our resident artists and their award-winning work in photography and photographic digital illustration.” The new site showcases the photography of John Mowers, who has been creating images for agency, corporate, and editorial clients since 1979. The portfolio of Russell Kerr is also featured, including his best work as a digital illustrator and retoucher for major advertising agencies and corporations. “Forté means strength,” comments Laura Mowers, studio director for Forté and Vertis. “By turning to Forté, clients have access to the strongest pool of photographers, digital illustrators, stylists, brand managers, color engineers, and graphics experts. It's a great marriage of talent and technology designed to seamlessly execute our clients' vision from conceptualization to print.” At Forté, Vertis' clients have access to multiple sets, drive in capabilities, a kitchen equipped with double appliances, as well as the comprehensive premedia services of Vertis' Minneapolis facility located directly above the studio. Additionally, as a creative service of Vertis, Forté is further strengthened by Vertis Studios, a digitally connected network of photographers, digital image creators, and designers—everything needed to turn artistic vision into impactful advertising. The digital network utilizes Vertis' proprietary Total Digital Workflow solutions, including digital asset and project management to streamline ad production. “At Forté and Vertis, our artists collaborate with ad production experts ensuring that the creative vision translates precisely onto the press or desired medium,” adds Kalman. “Because 90 percent of our work is done digitally, clients can maintain tight control of the quality and the creative process.” For more information contact Michelle Metter or Maria Amor at (619) 234-0345.