by Gabriel Gamarra

Staff Writer

What is art? To some, it is merely paint on a canvas but to those whose hearts revolve around it, it is a haven of self expression.

On Oct. 21, the family behind Sanctus Artem presented what can only be described as pure artistic beauty through each own’s artistic expression. The first floor of Hayden became a masterpiece. Each room, hallway and wall became something truly special. Every inch of Hayden became a story of the artists and of the art itself.

Each of the 55 participants’ pieces were submitted and selected for the second-annual art show. However, this was the first art show to be hosted by Sanctus Artem after becoming an official club. The art show became part of a collective outlet and voice.

  Two of the visionaries behind Sanctus Artem gave their hearts and everything they had to making this come to reality. Kelsey Quartulli, a junior majoring in art history and peace studies, is the founder and president of Sanctus Artem.

“I just really wanted to create something that I would be proud of and that these artists would be proud of. The talent that we have unearthed is truly unimaginable and is something I can’t wait for everyone to see,” said Quartulli before the art show.

The vice president is senior Patrick Estanbouli, who is majoring psychology and advertising. Estanbouli’s view of art sums up the unity that Sanctus Artem stands for.

“Any form of art is possible, no matter what it is. Even if it is just seeing things a certain way. It does not matter, as long as it is a form of expression for you it is art,” said Estanbouli.

The word art became a living and breathing being as the Hayden doors opened to the public at 5 p.m. This show united everyone that is a part of the Manhattan College community into one space to express themselves among those sharing the same passion. Art lept off the walls, rung in the audience’s ears, sung its beautiful melody and resonated with every single person that walked in the bottom floor of Hayden; two rooms were emptied out to serve as galleries, Hayden 100 was used as a stage for musical performances, the main entrance was a runway for fashion shows.

Every form of self expression was given the same opportunity to become its purest self. Everything from beat boxing, painting, photography, sketching, singing and fashion all touched the hearts of every single person in the Manhattan College family.

Another aspect of the show was aimed to help those who need it the most, as the show collected donations for the Puerto Rico hurricane relief. A raffle was held to send its proceeds to help those who are still struggling to find their feet and a place to call home.

Mark Pottinger, chairperson of visual and performing arts, gave his time to oversee and make sure everything went to plan.

“There has been more collaboration this time around from everyone inside and out of the department. Everyone wants to be apart of it now and wants to help which is such an amazing thing,” said Pottinger.

C.S. Brown’s pieces were some of those that struck a chord with the soul’s of the viewers. His paintings of Malcolm X, Hanna and Fredrick Douglas were so masterfully done that most people walking out spoke of it in the highest regard.

Surrounding those pieces were some of the best photographers and creators that the school has to offer. Senior journalism major Justin Meinken’s piece, “Dancing with the Spirits,”documented a portion of society that is often neglected and often misrepresented. Senior broadcasting major L. Cameron Cullen also showed off his MCTV show “Cam’s Corner” and senior accounting major Lola Ayodele held a fashion show featuring her own designs.

More than photographs, films and fashion were displayed, as pottery, figurines, skateboards, make-up skills, and poetry were shown throughout the makeshift galleries.

Quartulli’s grand view for Sanctus Artem is one that is simple and driven by love for all that belongs to it.

“I want this to continue for years to come. I want someone just as passionate if not even more passionate who has the heart for it to be able to carry this along. I want it to remain that outlet for the artists on campus to feel safe, heard and to be expressive. It’s a safe space for anyone and everyone,” said Quartulli.