Meet the Team!
Leo (they/them): Owner, Enthusiast, Extrovert.
Giblets: Micromanager, Quality Control, Lap Warmer.
Garbage: Annoying little brother, hasn't really found his role yet.
Welcome to the origin story of Chicago Queer Creations!
The owner, Leo, started as a self taught embroidery and acrylic artist in Denver, and after moving to Chicago in 2021, transitioned to attending in-person markets. As an extrovert and enthusiast, Leo genuinely enjoys getting to meet fellow artists, vendors, and organizers. Meeting new people, seeing familiar faces, and getting to share their art with Chicago and beyond is fulfilling and so much fun!
Since launching Chicago Queer Creations and diving into embroidery, Leo has since been inspired to switch to ceramics, and has spent many hours creating pieces at Gnarware Workshop in Pilsen. Each piece they make is either hand-built or wheel thrown, glazed, and brought home by Leo themselves.
As a queer human attending school full-time, selling ceramics full time has allowed them freedom and flexibility when it comes to focusing on their studies and mental health. During their free time, Leo enjoys trying new breweries and coffee shops, as well as exploring different Chicago neighborhoods on days with good weather!
Want to Catch Us IRL?
We love doing pop-up markets around the city! Here's what we have coming up:
Saturday, July 20th: Private Event
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Sunday, July 21st: BoS Arts and Craft Fair - 410 N. Paulina, Chicago, IL 60622. 10am-5pm.
Tickets HERE!
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Saturday, July 27th: Lemonade Ship 'n Shop - Fleur Chicago - 2651 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647. 11am-5pm.
Come support businesses impacted by construction!
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Sunday, July 28th: Shop Small Sundays at Segnatore - 1001 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 - 11am-3pm.
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Saturday, August 3rd: Solo Pop Up! Pure Green Juice Bar (Fulton Market) 936 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 - 10am-2pm.
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Saturday, August 10th: Festival of Us - 201 South Ashland, Chicago, IL 60607 - vending 2pm-8am.
Get tickets HERE!
Where Can We Be Found in Other Shops?
Chicago Queer Creations has their handmade pieces all around Chicagoland, as well as Colorado!
For the month of June (2024), CQC has a display set up for Self-Serve purchasing at Oromo Cafe - Bucktown. 1912 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647. Happy Pride!!
Magnets and Planters can also be found at Plant Stand Collective in Lakeview, Chicago. 3247 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657.
Magnets and Planters are also available in Denver, Colorado at Tiger Lily Goods! 3795 Grove St, Denver, CO 80211.
Select magnets can also be found at Foursided Card + Gift in Chicago. Primarily 2958 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657.