Focus Loop! Coffee shop work sessions.

I always find that post Covid a lot of us are interested in in-person events. Weirdly enough I am in that group. Which is pretty funny considering I am a VERY introverted person. But as the wave of new creators are striving for recognition and for some to make their art career work out, it can be discouraging. I love Chicago but trying to grow things here, the soil isn’t always primed or rich enough to sustain even some of the coolest artists.

I wanted to change that! I know I’m one person but I have a lot of passion for there to be a collective (as much as I hate that word) here to push and shoutout each other!

Today I stopped by a friends pop-up shop in the Water Tower on the Magnificent Mile.

IG: @kachow_kreations

Meet my friend Karen! She’s one of a few really cool brands that create physical art accompanied by digital work!

This is my first step (at least in my newsletter) to share and spotlight creators in Chicago!

YouTube Video of the Week

Evie Shaw & Ethan Tran are the coolest duo on my YouTube feed!

In this video: "Friends to Lovers" is an extremely beautiful short film where they explore the delicate transition from friendship to romance. Written and directed by the duo themselves, you can feel the raw personal emotion in every frame.

This six-minute film transports you directly into Evie and Ethan's world, offering a perfect escape.

I don't want to spoil this one—YOU HAVE TO WATCH IT!!

It inspired me to become a better writer and reinforced my focus on storytelling rather than chasing trends. While visual beauty matters, I'm drawn to creating an emotional imprint on my viewers. This film delivers exactly that, while also featuring impeccable cinematography.

I've noticed a pattern lately in emotionally impactful films.

Simple relatable plot + long focused composition = genuine interest in a theatrical story.

A Call to Create

No matter what your creative direction is, Chicago's creative spirit is alive and growing. And I want to spread the sentiment to KEEP GOING! The city might not always feel like fertile ground for artists, but that's exactly why we need to keep pushing, creating, and supporting each other.

Remember: great art isn't about following trends – it's about authenticity and emotional connection. Just like how a simple, focused story can create genuine impact, sometimes the smallest actions – like spotlighting a fellow creator or joining a local work session – can spark meaningful change in our community.

Let's continue building this creative economy one connection at a time. Whether you're an introvert stepping out of your comfort zone or an established artist, there's room for your voice in this city. And in YOUR city.

Here’s to the creatives 🎨