Supplies used on a collage making event on Oct. 22.
@SANCTUSARTEM / INSTAGRAM
María Castaño, A&E section editor
Manhattan University’s (MU) art club, Sanctus Artem, has expanded its campus presence through weekly events and a leadership structure designed to sustain its growth. Under Lucas Haas ’26, the club introduced regular executive board meetings to plan events ahead of time and a shadow board to prepare future leaders.
Aine Kolpa, a junior biology major and the club’s president, emphasized the importance of organization and consistency in strengthening the executive board.
“I think as the executive board is more confident and comfortable in their position, it’s reflected in the club because it’s more organized and more cohesive,” Kolpa said.
Eloiza Sanchez, a senior biology major and Sanctus Artem’s secretary, discussed how the club organizes and funds museum and exhibition trips while maintaining its regular weekly events.
“With our new faculty advisor, professor [Tannon] Reckling, we are getting way more experiences for art majors and exhibition trips for our members,” Sanchez said. “Our executive board also holds meetings every Monday to stay on top of our budget and planning for the future… If not for our organization and teamwork, Sanctus Artem truly would not stand to be what it is now.”
Through consistent programming, Sanctus Artem has become an established part of the campus community. Weekly gatherings also give students a consistent opportunity to build friendships beyond their usual circles. Its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming events allow students to participate, even on their own, and express themselves without feeling pressured to know anyone beforehand or feel excluded.
Karen Lima, a senior management and marketing major, told The Quadrangle why Sanctus Artem matters to her and how she believes the club’s work can support students who may be facing difficult or isolating times during university.
“People go there [to Sanctus Artem’s events] to de-stress and meet people,” Lima said. “I was actually going through a hard time, so I went [and] it was really nice… I did show up alone [the first time she went to an event], and I was like, oh, this is really nice. There’s snacks and music, so it’s not quiet and weird.”
Birdie Perry, a senior international studies major and the club’s events coordinator, echoed Lima’s perspective, describing the club’s focus on providing students with a judgment-free space to unwind and connect with others on campus.
“Having somewhere [to] go where you know you’ll always find a friend, and you get to make something and take it home with you and then have something to be proud of is very important,” Perry said. “And it’s a step away from your classes, but not a step away from campus life.”
The club’s community impact is also evident in its accessible social environment for students across disciplines. Kolpa emphasized how the club gives students an easy and welcoming way to connect with one another.
“I think everybody in there is going in there with [a] common goal,” Kolpa said. “They like art, they want to create art, and so that itself is the conversation starter for them to meet new people.”