GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) – It’s a special place where local artists can congregate and collaborate; SAGE is an arts advocacy nonprofit giving people a space to create for free.

SAGE stands for “share, accept, grow and encourage.” The organization started in 2017 after founder Stacey Von Busch moved to Green Bay and connected with two other small business owners who wanted to support other artist’s entrepreneurial endeavors and build a stronger arts culture in the area.

“It’s just a bunch of compassionate artists who want to share what it is they create and make a difference in their community,” said Von Busch.

Tucked away on Washington Street in Downtown Green Bay, artists of all abilities come together at SAGE for “open studio” night.

“You can make use of whatever supplies we have on hand, whatever tools we have at absolutely no cost. We look to eliminate the cost barrier to creativity by providing the space,” said Von Busch.

For Briana Padalino, an artist, it’s an opportunity to create, collaborate, and connect with new friends she’s made at SAGE.

“Art in general is a very therapeutic thing for me,” said Padalino. “I like being able to be around other people.”

Artists have an opportunity to showcase their work during SAGE’s free “one night only” exhibits and it’s not just support for the visual arts. SAGE offers a monthly “musicians meet up” to share their passion and knowledge.

“Getting together and just being able to talk about what it’s like out here as a musician whether locally or beyond the local perspective,” said Xavier Horkman, a Musicians’ Meet Up volunteer. “What’s it like to post your music online? What are the best channels to go about it?”

Now, SAGE is expanding its mentorship outreach through its “creatively engaged community” program, partnering with other local non-profits serving those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and unique cognitive, physical and emotional challenges.

“It raises awareness. It essentially humanizes a social issue,” said Von Busch. “It brings this topic to the surface through the individuals who are actually experiencing it, and we get that greater understanding, comprehension, maybe even a little bit of relatability to what it is they’re experiencing through what they chose to show in their art.”

All of SAGE’s programs rely on private donations, grants, and their Annual Toy Maker’s Fundraiser to continue providing a safe, accessible space for artistic expression.

You can learn more about what SAGE offers and how you can support their efforts here.

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