Get ready for an inspiring and hands-on experience with four Chicago artists who turned their passions into careers! Our executive director will moderate a lively panel before tweens split into small groups and rotate through four unique demos led by each artist. This event is all about sparking creativity, building confidence, and showing your child how they can turn their passion into a meaningful career.
Meet the Artists
Emma McKee, known in the industry as Stitchgawd, is a cross-stitch fashion designer who has worked with celebrities like Chance the Rapper, SZA, and the Chicago Bulls. And yes, she’s got the camera roll to prove it! Stitchgawd will share her journey from hobbyist to full-time entrepreneur and guide your tween through a creative activity.
Nakiya'h Longstreet is an interdisciplinary artist and skateboarder from the Southside of Chicago. He creates artworks with a therapeutic intention to fill a void for the lack of expression of inner emotions and energy that all people subconsciously can relate to. His artworks are a response to reflections of the world he resides in and the perspectives of the worlds he comes from.
Anyea Taylor, founder of Ahead Academy, leads a nonprofit that teaches empowerment and entrepreneurship through hair. Anyea will talk about what inspired her to start the Academy and how she’s helping young people learn valuable skills while building their own businesses.
Griffin Goodman is a Chicago-based visual artist known for merging pop culture and personal iconography into vibrant, large-scale paintings. He earned his MFA in Painting and Drawing from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and his BFA from Ringling College of Art and Design. Goodman has partnered with major organizations such as the Chicago Bulls, Lollapalooza, and Warner Brothers, gaining recognition for his ability to weave deeper narratives into playful and nostalgic imagery. Most recently, he was named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 for Art & Style.
Parent Circle (Optional)
Dr. LaTia Greer, a child and adult psychologist, will lead a casual conversation about the challenges of raising tweens in the Digital Age. Any adults who are helping to raise your child are invited to join.