Creative Hour - A Networking Experience

ABOUT THE CREATIVE HOUR

The Creative Hour is designed to spark curiosity and conversations that lead to genuine connections. From a simple hi to showing how creatives approach their work, we've built an immersive engagement experience for introverts, extroverts, and people who identify as having a little of both.

Curated by Alexie Young / Art West LLC and powered by DCASE, each session welcomes attendees into a warm, structured environment where they can meet others, watch fellow creatives share their work on screen, and leave with new connections in Chicago's creative community.

HOW THE CREATIVE HOUR IS CURATED

Every element of the Creative Hour is designed with the guest in mind. Facilitation methods are inspired by trauma-informed practice, inclusivity, and intentional engagement design. We use color-coded name tags (introvert, extrovert, ambivert) to help guests connect at the pace that feels right for them. Lo-fi music sets the tone, prompt cards spark conversation, and a curated Creative Culture Talks segment gives four creatives the floor to visually share their work.

AGENDA — 90 MINUTES

1:30 – 1:45 PM · Warm-Up: "Hi! What Am I?"

Guests arrive, check in, and choose a name tag color. The host opens with a conversation starter: "Say hello — and before you introduce yourself by name, tell people what you do."

1:45 – 1:50 PM · Transition & Speaker Introduction

The host introduces the four Creative Culture Talks speakers and explains the format.

1:50 – 2:20 PM · Creative Culture Talks

Four selected speakers each share 5 minutes of visual content — with up to 3-minute transitions between speakers to set up each presentation.

2:20 – 2:30 PM · Transition

Guests are invited into open networking. Music continues.

2:30 – 3:00 PM · Creative Connections

Open networking. Meet speakers, exchange contacts, and continue conversations sparked earlier.

HOW TO PITCH TO SPEAK

Interested in sharing your creative brand or work during the Creative Culture Talks segment? Select the "Pitch to Speak About Your Creative Brand" ticket at checkout. This ticket type reserves your spot as a potential speaker.

After you RSVP:

• You'll receive a Google Form to submit your name, contact info, content link, social media handles, and a short description of what you'd like to share.
• Content examples include: short film snippets, trailers, social media profile highlights, project decks, mini portfolios, or upcoming events.
• Our team reviews all submissions to ensure a strong, aligned lineup. Selection confirmation will be sent by email.
• Selected speakers simply check in at the check-in table on the day of the event to prep for their 5-minute talk.

Speaker slots are limited to 4 per session and reviewed on a first-come, first-reviewed basis.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT CHECK-IN

• Choose a color-coded name tag: blue for introvert, coral for extrovert, gold for ambivert.
• Pick up a prompt card and a small fidget for social comfort.
• Meet a volunteer who will orient you to the room and the flow.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

Creatives, entrepreneurs, artists, culture workers, and anyone interested in connecting with Chicago's creative community.