Meet the creative communities that make Soho House Chicago
From a run club to monthly cornerstone painting, it’s a hive of social activity for members
Tuesday 28 May 2024 By Yasemin Celepi
Over the past 10 years, Soho House Chicago has become a beloved meeting point for members. Be it at the morning run club, monthly cornerstone painting or late-night House Jazz events, it provides lots of opportunities to meet other like-minded people who walk through the doors.
Breakfast Club
Every other Wednesday for the last two years, the Breakfast Club has been meeting at the Kings Table. Following a session at the gym, everyone enjoys some food together while they talk through their upcoming week, creating a support network where they discuss their individual needs.
‘I love looking down the big, long table and seeing people who have been to almost every Breakfast Club interact with new faces. I believe you get out what you put into the community,’ says member and digital creator, Ryan Meyers
Run Club
With a boxing ring, fully equipped gym and regular exercise classes, there’s plenty to keep our members active at Soho House Chicago. There’s also the Run Club, which is led by member Kayla Jetter; it takes place every Wednesday morning and is open to all experience levels from walkers to marathon runners. It’s not all about fitness, though – the group also uses the time to unwind and socialise together.
‘This club redefines running for me; it’s a social activity that can be shared with friends,’ says Jetter. ‘We start the day taking in Chicago’s sights and check in on one another’s wellbeing – the way we show up for each other is unmatched. The group is like a family and the House has become a second home.’
Cornerstone painters
Created by curator Lance Curran, cornerstone painting is at the heart and soul of the House. Every month for nearly 10 years, a local artist has produced a mural on the two walls that constitute the corner of the building. Curran came up with the idea to highlight the diverse artists in the city (beyond just muralists) and integrate them into the Soho House Chicago community.
‘Over the years, I’ve met so many talented creators from all walks of life because of the corners and I love seeing how the experience brings out the best in them,’ says Curran. ‘We’ve had more than 100 creatives take part, including comic artists such as Jill Thompson and muralists like Max Sansing, as well as graphic designers, photographers, fine artists, and street artists.’
Art Club
Also drawing from the city’s thriving art scene, curators and gallerists come together to produce creative projects, exhibitions, and collaborate with local talent and galleries. Art Club, which takes place two or three times a month, was formed by member and gallery director, Vincent Uribe following the success of the Ingress Gallery partnership with Soho House that he also programmed.
‘I formed an art club as a way to engage local Chicago artists in the Soho House community more naturally. I think the House has a friendly and curious member base and I’ve seen many lasting relationships created here,’ says Uribe.
Founder member and art curator Anna Maria Cerniglia is another art fabricator in Soho House Chicago. ‘Artist advocacy is at the core of my work, and I see myself as a liaison between our partners at Johalla Projects and the artists we collaborate with,’ she says.
Book Club
It’s not only artists and athletes who meet in this House; since 2015, Book Club members have come together once a month to explore their common interest. The collective of readers discuss books, grab some food and catch up.
For educator and Book Club cofounder, Mycall Akeem Riley, some of his favourite memories in the House came from this group. ‘One of the greatest discussions was from a book called Reprieve. I’m an educator by day, so I’ve had a lot of discussions, and this was one of the best I’ve ever had.’
House Jazz nights
Curated by Founder member and director of Q Music, Saam Hagshenas, House Jazz is a weekly event showcasing talented local jazz musicians. Guests come to enjoy a glass of wine, dance with their friends and meet other members, all backdropped by live music.
‘With its nuance, improvisation and musicianship, jazz can serve as part of the tapestry for a great night out with friends. The creative nature of Soho House makes House Jazz a natural fit and especially so in Chicago, which has a rich history of jazz music,’ says Hagshenas.
Film Club
For the monthly Film Club, the screening room is more than just a space to view the latest premiere; it’s an opportunity to join other movie lovers, engage in conversation about cinema, and enjoy a drink in the dedicated bar and lounge.
‘The club, the staff and my fellow members have become more than colleagues; they’re my chosen family. You’re at the intersection of comfort, creativity and artistic elevation,’ says member NK Gutiérrez.
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