Saint-Cyr Art Studio: Transforming Community through Murals
Saint-Cyr Art Studio, founded by two Haitian sisters, is a thriving women-owned enterprise that has successfully transitioned from a focus on arts education to specializing in mural projects commissioned by local governments and businesses. This strategic shift reflects the company’s broader mission to enhance community involvement through art.
The Beginning of a New Chapter
Originally conceived as a program designed to deliver visual arts education to underserved communities on Long Island, the studio’s direction evolved significantly in recent years. “I saw a crucial need for visual arts programming across certain communities on Long Island,” commented Sansil, one of the founders. This realization drove her to create programs that would not only bring art to young people but also engage diverse populations.
Building Partnerships for Change
Saint-Cyr’s initial initiative was an art camp during the winter break in Wyandanch, which served around 20 to 25 students and linked creativity with community nourishment. Over time, the success of such programs opened doors to additional opportunities, including a partnership with PS 175 Henry Highland Garnet School. “Our school was fortunate to partner with Saint-Cyr Art Studio,” remarked PS 175 Assistant Principal Downton, noting the studio’s impactful presence within the community.
Strategic Focus on Local Contracts
Transitioning from arts education to a full-service mural agency was not initially on the agenda, but the decision to pursue contracts with local governments, healthcare organizations, and nonprofits proved beneficial. This change was catalyzed by Sansil’s participation in the Ascend Long Island program, which honed her skills in sales and client engagement. A study by the Census Bureau highlights that women-owned businesses with government contracts have experienced more robust growth compared to those reliant solely on consumer sales.
Growing a Business with Purpose
With newfound clarity in her business goals, Saint-Cyr rebranded the studio and concentrated on securing mural contracts. Her efforts have led to lucrative engagements, generating over $1 million annually. In 2021, her sister joined the company to manage financial operations, further solidifying the business’s foundation.
Challenges of Rapid Expansion
The trajectory of growth has not come without challenges. In 2022, public schools in New York City allocated $75,000 for art projects, and Saint-Cyr secured multiple contracts, necessitating a swift expansion of the team and production capabilities. “We needed to learn how to handle multiple mural projects simultaneously,” she noted. However, the rapid pace of growth exposed vulnerabilities in the company’s processes and systems, prompting a reevaluation of team management and operational logistics.
Adapting to Team Dynamics
Initially designed to foster a collaborative spirit, the growing team of artists faced issues of productivity and accountability. “We wanted artists to feel invested in the business, but I found myself trying to change the business to meet their needs,” Sansil shared. The studio’s experience revealed that simply providing financial compensation did not equate to improved motivation. As a result, the team moved towards a subcontracting model, offering hourly wages instead of flat payments.
An Ongoing Commitment to Community
The insights gained from various training programs have helped shape Saint-Cyr’s operational structure and have contributed significantly to its success. The company’s original vision to serve the community through art has expanded beyond initial expectations, reaching a broader audience and providing opportunities for local artists as well.
As Saint-Cyr Art Studio continues to grow, it remains committed to its mission of collaboration and community engagement, evidenced by the positive feedback from educational partners like Ralph Honore, Principal of PS 055q: “Collaboration with Saint-Cyr Art Studio was a joy! From planning to execution, everything was managed with professionalism and creative integrity.” The studio’s ongoing projects continue to breathe life into community spaces, further demonstrating the transformative power of art.
