Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna-Julia Geiger.
Hi Anna-Julia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
“I moved to the U.S. from Germany in 2013 and worked as an elementary school teacher with a master’s degree in teaching art and math. After settling in here, I joined a gallery in Kirkland to exhibit my artwork, continued painting, and began studying pottery and wheel throwing. Through NPR, I learned that many school districts were reducing art education, which was very impactful to me as an art teacher. Combined with wanting to build something of my own, I began teaching private after-school art classes from my home and officially opened my business in 2015. In 2016, I decided to leave my full-time elementary teaching position to focus entirely on growing my art business. What started as one small room attached to my house has now grown into a thriving art studio with three classrooms, serving the community for over 10 years.”
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
“It has definitely not always been a smooth road, but I’ve always tried to focus on growth instead of stress — growth artistically, professionally, and personally. Whenever one of those areas slowed down, I would concentrate on the other two, or sometimes fully dedicate myself to just one of them. That mindset helped me stay motivated and continue moving forward.
One of the biggest challenges was during Covid. As a non-citizen and small business owner, the uncertainty was very scary, especially because there was NO support available to businesses like mine. I had to become very creative to keep the Art Lab running and continue serving our students and community. Looking back now, I can honestly say that despite the challenges, that period became a time of tremendous growth for both me and my business.”
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
“I’m a painter, sculptor, potter, and educator. I deeply believe in Louise Bourgeois’ quote, ‘Art is a guarantee of sanity.’ Art has always been a way for me to grow, reflect, and heal, and I try to pass that experience on to my students.
Through teaching art, I want students not only to develop a deeper way of seeing the world, but also to discover that art can be an incredible outlet for expression, confidence, and connection. I want them to realize the value of being creators in the world rather than only consumers.
My vision for the Art Lab has always been for it to be more than just an art school. I want it to be a place that fills people’s lives with creativity, inspiration, and personal growth.”
What do you like and dislike about the city?
“There is honestly not much that I dislike about this area. I originally planned to stay for only two years, and now it has been 13, which says a lot about how much I love living here. I had no idea how much creativity and inspiration this part of the world had to offer, and I especially appreciate the openness and curiosity of the people here. Without that willingness to try new things and support creative ideas, I would never have been able to grow and sustain my business for so many years.”
Pricing:
- Summer camp drop-in classes are $90
- Unlimited summer camp PASS for one week is $550
- Little Artist Classes 2 hours $60
- Adult mixed media drop-in classes 2 hours $70
- Birthday parties or private events 2 hours $55 per person
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.annasartlab.com
- Instagram: Anna’s Art Lab
