Last week I received a invitation from the Chicago Bloggers Network to take part in their first Mobile Blogger Lounge and I had a fantastic time. This spectacular event was sponsored by Hennessy V.S and was created to introduce bloggers to the street art around the city and to meet legendary street artist Futura (known for his influence in the abstract expressionist movement, is globally known for his talents in painting, graphic design, photography, and more) who teamed up with Hennessy to design their latest bottle.
Our adventure began at Leaders on North Wells where all of the bloggers met up to socialize before being whisked away on a party bus equipped with an amazing tour guide named Nick Marzullo of Pawn Works and a mixologist to serve up special cocktails compliments of Hennessy V.S. The purpose of the mobile lounge was to give bloggers the chance to share their exclusive experience while discovering the art work beautifying the walls of Chicago through twitter, facebook, instagram ,and all social media. (Go back and check out our adventures on Twitter…hashtag HENNYxFUTURA)
Honestly I never put street art on the level of the art work hanging in a gallery or a museum, however after viewing some of these masterpieces and hearing the stories behind them, I am convinced that they are just as important and priceless as a painting by Picasso or Van Gogh . As we drove around the city, I was amazed at the thought and dedication that went into creating this art work and walked away with more respect for those who make street art their life’s work.
A quick photo before taking off in the Mobile Blogger Lounge
Artist: ROA – Location: Sangamon & Kinzie
Arist: Gaia – Location: 16th & Newberry
Artist: Jon Bergerman – Location: 16th & Laughlin
Artist: ROA – Location: 16th st. & Ashland
After the tour around the city our final stop was at the Storefront Company restaurant in Wicker Park. The decor inside was clean and simple with black & white tones; I felt it was the perfect spot to showcase and talk about street art. The Storefront Company has a “farm to table” concept and not only was the food yummy, but the presentation and staff were impeccable.
I didn’t know who Futura was before this event but after meeting him I can see why Hennessy selected him to design the art work for their bottle. Not only is he a talented artist but he’s a humble man with a great personality. He spoke and took pictures with everyone and really treated us bloggers like we were all old friends.
Bloggers at the Storefront Company
More yummy food at the Storefront Company in Wicker Park
Gift bags courtesy of Hennessy V.S
Limited Edition Futura designed Hennessy V.S
Talented artist Futura and I
Special thank you to the Chicago Blogger Network, Hennessy V.S, Futura and the talented street artists with the passion and dedication to beautify the city of Chicago.
