“The one-year anniversary of my joining the Artory was just a few days ago, and while reflecting on the past year, I realized how much my time there has given me,” explained junior Anastasia Geigel. “Not only did it provide me with close friends, but I would go as far as to call members of The Artory a second family.”

Geigel is a member of a very vital group to the arts community in Green Bay called the Artory. The group provides a safe habitat for local, low-income artists, musicians, poets and visual artists to create their art apart from negative influences. Started in early 2017 by Tarl Knight and Zoe Muzak, the Artoty creates a sense of community for those involved.

“I had known Tarl Knight as a friendly acquaintance for a few years as I would often go out with my family to hear him perform,” said Geigel. “About a  year ago he pulled me aside after one of his gigs to explain his new arts business, asking if I would be interested in taking photos for him at some upcoming events.”

She shot her first event at Artory Presents last April and has been apart of the organization since.

The Artory produces multiple events such as Artory Presents, Artory LITE, Partory: Party at the Artory and Artour: Art Tour.

Geigel is the Artory’s media coordinator, meaning she takes photos and produces videos to promote the organization. She recognizes that this role has greatly amplified and improved her leadership skills.

“With Green Bay becoming more developed year by year, I think an organization like the Artory is of great value in the community because it attracts new groups of people to the area, along with getting actual citizens more involved with their city,” Giegel explained.  “The Artory and its events bring in revenue to the downtown area.”

The Artory has its own building where the artists can rent out various studios. Geigel elaborates on how the collaboration of the typically tricky close quarters help artists “engage in intellectual, inspired, and enriching projects.” The atmosphere of the whole building is communal.

Geigel credits the Artory to opening her eyes through their welcoming kindness and strength.

“Everyone a part of the organization has played a positive role in my development as an artist, but, more importantly, as a person. I have been able to connect with so many diverse groups of people artistically and emotionally,” said Geigel. “Being a somewhat sheltered only child, my time with the Artory has provided me with a better understanding of those who are different from me.”

The Artory has impacted Geigel so much that she advocates for others to pursue their talents and get involved. She wants everyone to believe in their gifts.

“I realize this is far easier said than done, but if any artists reading this are thinking they would need a little help finding the right place to do their first open mic, gig, or art display, I would be more than happy to help you find a place to get started.”

Beyond the experience and the business aspect of the organization, the Artory has left a large mark on Geigel’s aspirations and art.

“There is no doubt in my mind that I wouldn’t be where I am with my photography now if I did not have those friends. I always had trouble believing in myself–as sickeningly cliche as it sounds–and I still do,” beamed Geigel.  “But these people push me to be the absolute best I can be in my craft. My time there has given me a direction in life, as I have decided to pursue photography and film in college. The love and encouragement found in the people of the Artory is something that I cannot compare to anything else I have ever been a part of.”