The Storytelling Studio at Georgian Court University, located on the lower level of Jeffries Hall, has recently been updated with colorful murals. What was once a simple space is now a visual tribute to storytelling, women in film, and the university’s history. Led by Dr. Marci Mazzarotto, Assistant Professor of Communication and Department Chair, and artist Chloe Evangelista, this project has refreshed the studio, providing students with a space that encourages creativity and a sense of community.
Bringing Art to Life: The Murals and Their Themes
Visitors encounter a “Studio” sign with vintage media icons as they enter the studio. This mural serves a functional purpose by directing people to the studio and reflects the evolution of media. The retro design offers a nostalgic nod to the history of communication, reminding viewers of the technological advances that have shaped modern storytelling.
Further into the studio is a mural of the Georgian Court University logo set against a vibrant purple background. For Dr. Mazzarotto, this mural was designed to foster a sense of pride and identity within the university. It creates a welcoming entrance into the Storytelling Studio, inviting students and visitors to engage with the creative space and feel a connection to the university.
The third mural of the transformation is the “Be Natural” mural, a tribute to diverse female filmmakers throughout history. Featuring women filmmakers of diverse racial, cultural, ethnic identities and sexual orientations alongside Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, this mural celebrates underrepresented figures in film. The phrase “Be Natural,” famously used by early filmmaker Alice Guy-Blaché to encourage authentic performances, anchors the piece. This mural represents the importance of women in film and connects that legacy to the university’s roots in women’s education and empowerment.
The Vision Behind the Murals: Dr. Marci Mazzarotto
The idea to transform the Storytelling Studio came from Dr. Mazzarotto’s desire to create a more engaging and inspiring space for students. “The vision for the murals was to transform the cream-colored cinder block walls into a vibrant and inviting environment,” Dr. Mazzarotto explained. The murals were designed to breathe new life into the space, making it feel welcoming for students, faculty, staff, and the broader community.
Dr. Mazzarotto hopes that these murals will not only beautify the studio but also foster creativity and community. “I believe these murals will significantly elevate the atmosphere of the university,” she said. She envisions the murals as opportunities for students to take photos, engage with the artwork, and feel more connected to the university.
Collaboration was essential in this project, especially with artist Chloe Evangelista. The two met at a filmmaker networking event in Asbury Park, and Dr. Mazzarotto was impressed by Chloe’s creativity and artistic skill. “Chloe and I quickly became friends. She’s a talented artist and animator, and I was particularly impressed by a mural she created in Asbury Park,” Dr. Mazzarotto shared. Working together felt like a natural fit, resulting in a collection of murals reflecting both visions.
Chloe Evangelista: A Love for Art and Storytelling
For Chloe Evangelista, art has always been a part of her life. “I’ve always felt that being an artist is simply a part of who I am,” she explained, recalling how she began drawing as a child. Chloe studied 2D animation at Pratt Institute and graduated in 2022. After discovering a love for murals, she found joy in how public art engages people. “Creating murals that tell a story and seeing how people interact with that art and perceive it is incredibly rewarding,” she shared.
Creating the murals in the Storytelling Studio began with research and careful planning. Chloe immersed herself in documentaries and explored different artistic styles, drawing inspiration from the themes Dr. Mazzarotto wanted to highlight. “For the mural featuring diverse faces, I aimed for a playful ‘Where’s Waldo?’ effect, encouraging viewers to engage with the artwork,” Chloe explained. Her goal was to invite students and visitors to appreciate the murals’ visual beauty and learn from the stories behind the women featured.
Chloe’s love for art goes beyond aesthetics—she sees it as a powerful tool for connection and expression. “Art is a labor of love for me,” she shared. “It’s a way to tell stories and connect with others, inspiring me to keep creating.” Chloe hopes that the murals in the Storytelling Studio will inspire the same passion in others. “If even one person is inspired to research the women featured on the wall, that would be a wonderful outcome.”
A Collective Effort to Inspire Creativity
The Storytelling Studio’s new murals result from collaboration and shared vision. Dr. Mazzarotto expressed her gratitude to her colleagues, including Dr. Ellen Bernhard and Dr. Neal Steed, for their support in making the project possible. She also thanked the School of Business and Digital Media, Security, and Facilities Team, which ensured Chloe had everything she needed during the painting process. “This project truly reflects a collective effort across all departments,” Dr. Mazzarotto said, highlighting the importance of community in bringing the murals to life.
As the Storytelling Studio’s new look takes shape, it represents more than just a visual transformation—it symbolizes Georgian Court University’s commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and the power of storytelling. Dr. Mazzarotto hopes the murals will foster a sense of pride and connection, encouraging students to engage with the space and the stories it tells. “I hope that students will see these murals, learn from them, and recognize the importance of the women featured,” she said.
For Chloe, the murals are an invitation to explore art and creativity on a deeper level. “I want to encourage everyone to make art. And if you don’t feel inspired to create, find ways to support those who do,” she shared. Through her work on the Storytelling Studio murals, Chloe hopes to inspire others to tap into their creative potential and explore the stories that art can tell.
Whether you’re a student looking to unleash your creativity, a visitor wanting to connect with the space, or simply an admirer of art, the Storytelling Studio invites you to step in, engage, and perhaps even create your own narrative.
