The conversation will center on “The Idea of Art,” and how partnerships with brands can sharpen artists’ craft, according to the press release. For example, Lee partnered with Jordan Brand during the 2020 NBA All-Star Weekend to design graphics and animations, and to lead sessions on illustration and design at luxury retail store SVRN in the West Loop. And Joe Freshgoods is partnering with 1800 Tequila for this educational event.
Featuring Us begins at 5:00 p.m. on Nov. 4 at Wildman BT, located at 3020 W Carroll Ave. An on-site Visual Artists Gallery will open later that evening.
Joe Freshgoods plans to announce ticket details for Featuring Us on Nov. 1. Tickets for the event will be free, but limited because of COVID-19 restrictions at the venue, he said.
Folks must be age 21 and over to enter the event.
In an interview with The TRiiBE on Oct. 26, Joe Freshgoods said it’s important that any brand he partners with — including 1800 Tequila — shines a light on up-and-coming Chicago talent.
This is a consistent theme in his work; in the video promo for his 2021 Outside Clothes release with New Balance, for example, he worked with Chicago peers such as director Mike Carson, filmed on his native West Side and featured everyday Chicagoans in an effort to show the beauty that exists within Black Chicago neighborhoods.
“When I structure my deals, I always try to think about how can I spotlight and uplift people,” Joe Freshgoods said.
At the Featuring Us event, a few local creatives — Anieya, Myles and Matoe — will also have an opportunity to showcase their artwork at the on-site Visual Artists Gallery. Their work will be available for purchase. According to the press release, 1800 Tequila will match total sales and all profits will go to the artists.