Stephan F. Kistler is a freelance photographer who lives and works in St. Paul. A significant focus of his recent work has been on environmental portraits in urban settings, seeking to tell stories about people and their neighborhoods that might go untold without the unique connection that a camera lens can trigger. His aim is to create a point of view that helps others see their surroundings, community, and themselves in a new and enriched way –and, where possible, gain a fresh perspective on key issues our neighborhoods, society and environment face.

Kistler is the co-founder, curator and ad-hoc manager of ArT @ 967 Payne, a collaborative and inclusive working studio and gallery space located one block from The Board at CE Studios. ArT @ 967 Payne serves as a local arts center for the diverse community on the East Side of Saint Paul, is home to a communal group of working artists, and hosts gallery exhibitions that attract artists and art lovers from the larger Twin Cities area. Stephan is also the co-founder and artistic lead of Solidarity Street Gallery, an annual, community-centered art and cultural festival along Payne Avenue in St. Paul. The event brings together neighbors and visitors with artists, performers, community organizations, civic leaders, and local businesses for important exchanges about justice, equity, and resilience – and to celebrate all the diverse groups who call the East Side of St. Paul their home.