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You may recognize Jenny Vyas‘s incredible murals and art pieces throughout the Chicago landscape. The Underground sits down to pick her mind about her work, inspiration and the ever changing art industry.

First and foremost, please introduce yourself. Was there a pivotal moment when you decided to follow your path as an artist?

I am a fine artist from the Chicagoland area. Like all great stories start, my journey as an artist began about 5 years ago when I went through one of the most significant (and painful) transitions. While healing during that period in darkness, all I could think about was to paint. My professional background up until then was in eCommerce. Never having painted professionally before, you can imagine how daunting this “calling” was. However, the more I ignored it, the louder it grew within. So, for the next year, I jumped in head first to teach myself how to paint and I’m ever so grateful for the catharsis it has brought me, albeit its unknown and often times, terrifying territory. It’s been such a gift to summon up the courage to follow my passion.

Do you find that Chicago’s art scene inspires or influences your art?

In my experience, Chicago has one of the most supportive and caring artist communities out there. Art is such a genuine cultural element here and there is true respect for artists and their craft. Artists are interconnected and willing to collaborate and help each other out which is so refreshing in a profession riddled with competition. This has inspired and fueled me to carve out avenues for creative expression and build a business around it. In addition, opportunities to present and showcase work in the city are countless. Commercially, I think it’s a very interesting period for artists. Artists and their artworks are more sought out and accessible than ever as fans engage in conversation and get inspired by connecting with them through social media. As the economy struggles in this city, art seems to be the one constant that has found fertile ground in the Chi.

Can you tell us about the process of making your work including those you will be showcasing at the Art Show?

When painting, I get fixated on a singularly transcendent emotion that explores the darker places within we tend to hide from. My creative process attempts to capture the polarity of this emotional process in semi-abstract human silhouettes and fluctuating forms in half-light. I am a storyteller by heart and painting something for the sake of…well, just painting wasn’t enough. I needed my work to tell those stories. Often times, I’ll get so fixated on capturing an emotion that it consumes me. I think, dream, talk about it all day, all week (mostly in my head) until I’ve captured some essence of it on the canvas.

Many of your pieces showcase forms of human silhouettes. Can you tell us the story behind them?

My Dad is a philosopher and I’ve always been able to engage in deep discussions about my existential crisis with him. Why my art often has a philosophical and existential undertone. I am fascinated by the beauty in human frailty. And capturing that in the forms of human silhouettes seemed fitting. Through my paintings, I am finally able to unpack these complex layers of human condition I struggled to externalize otherwise in the past. The surprising (and the best) gift from this process though has been the way people connect with it. My art stopped telling my story a long time ago and instead became the conduit to evoke catharsis in its viewers. What more could an artist ask for?

It’s quite challenging working as an artist in the digital world with so much creators out there. How do you keep true to yourself?

It’s evident that the art market is saturated with talent and social media and online presence influence the worth of an artist’s work. When I started selling work, the biggest problem I experienced (and still do) was balancing a need for the market with a detachment from the commercial aspect of the craft. In order to remain to true to myself and create work from the heart, I recognized a need for commercial obedience in how I marketed myself. While I would rather pay my bills from selling my art, in order to accomplish the above, I chose to continue freelancing as a digital marketer with a select few clients I retained from my life prior to becoming an artist. This allowed me to accept art commissions that I genuinely felt connected to without compromising my personal values and the intellectual pursuit I seek from the work. I’m not saying I’m always successful at this, but it’s a process and I’m learning to create stronger creative boundaries every day as I become more established as an artist.

What advice would you give to a young artist following in your steps?

To romanticize this profession is perilous. Too often do you leave your heart out bleeding on the canvas and you’re left feeling exposed and incredibly vulnerable. However, the catharsis and self-love that erupt from this process are well worth it. Like any great profession, this journey demands dedication and hard, hard, HARD work. If you’re considering becoming an artist (or have just started this journey), I have two pieces of advice for you. (1) DO NOT COMPARE YOURSELF to established artists. You have no idea how many trials and errors landed them where they are today. They too began their journey just like you did one day. Allow yourself space and time to mature creatively. (2) Don’t be misguided into thinking that you have to go in full-time. I began painting to heal myself through my #100VulnerableDays project where I painted 100 small paintings (an hour a day), while I freelanced with over 10 clients for digital marketing. This allowed me to earn a sustainable income and still follow my passion on the side. My “studio” was a corner in my living room and eventually progressed to taking over the basement of my parents’ house. So, don’t think that you have to start with a studio or a huge financial commitment/freedom. Just start an hour a day. Rest will follow.

Looking for the perfect excuse to throw a killer party this spring or summer? Use our annual “Midsummer’s Night Dream” party for your inspiration! For this event, our expert event planners styled the room from floor to ceiling with Chinese lanterns, faux flowers, and green foliage to create a magical garden interior.

Costumed staff and dancers brought the room to life. We offered specialty cocktails and light bites from our award-winning sister restaurant, Sunda New Asian.

Contact our event planners to start planning your fairy-tale night out in Chicago!

Tequila made me do it! How many times have we heard that line stumble out of our friends’ mouth? Say goodbye to the morning after hangovers and bad decisions. We’re here to give you the ultimate guide to tequila tasting so you won’t have to spend another night by the toilet.

Pinkies up, you classy human.

Final Touch

Don’t forget to evaluate the finish and texture. Tequila doesn’t have to be a 5 second feeling of regret. It can be smooth, mellow, full-bodied or light. The finish could be oily, silky, bold, etc. Flavors that linger on the palate are considered to be a long finish. Be sure to note those words so you can later brag to your friends.

With Earth Day upon us, going green doesn’t have to be all or nothing. We’ve listed a few simple changes you can implement in your daily life that will make positive impact on both the environment and your health.

There is no planet B so let’s take care of our home!

Buy Locally!

We’re sure you’ve heard the saying “buy local” and we understand that it might sound a bit gimmicky. Luckily, we’re here to break it down for you. When buying local, not only does it give people viable job opportunities but it also encourages entrepreneurship and innovation. It empowers local decision-making which are made by those people who live in the community. There is power is knowing who grows your food or who makes your clothes since you it allows for people to get to know their local culture rather than those who represent a corporate brand.

Say Goodbye to Your Plastic Utensils!

The toxins in cooking utensils can seep into your food when using them. Even BPA-free utensils contain toxic and synthetic ingredients. Using single use plastic utensils causes waste and may take hundreds of years to break down in the earth. Switching out your utensils is a fairly cheap way to to have a more green and eco-friendly kitchen. Bamboo utensils are super inexpensive to buy, as well as, stainless steel. It’s a great investment that will last you a long time!

Travel More Lightly!

With the weather in Chicago getting better each day, why not choose to cycle around town? Choosing to cycle to work is pretty much guaranteed to save you money (no more gas bills or CTA charges). Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate daily exercise which means less time at the gym and more time for yourself. Most importantly, by riding your bike you directly contribute to reduced carbon emissions.

Spa Day!

The Peninsula Chicago offers a full “Spa & Wellness” menu which includes everything from all-natural Hot Stone Massages to Classic Nail Treatments and Specialized Facials.

Retail Therapy!

With over 450 stores to choose from, the Magnificient Mile offers everything from major department stores to luxury boutiques and designer brands.

Rising star Seb Torgus sits down with The Underground Chicago to talk about the release of his debut EP << Idol Boy >> and the ever changing music industry.

First and foremost, introduce yourself to the world! Where were you brought up and how has that influenced your extensive knowledge of Music / Fashion / Pop Culture?

My name is Seb Torgus! I was born and raised in Chicago, and at a very young age I found myself always knowing I was going to be a performer. The city inspired me in many different ways. I feel that it gave me a sense of comfort and diversity. Being super young and roaming the city motivated me to dream bigger. Chicsgo played a huge influence in my music too. I grew up listening to a lot of 80’s pop, which then transcended into my love for hip hop. In my eyes, Chicago has some of the best artists in the country. We’re extremely competitive and we work hard. Nothings given to us, no ones parents are famous, we all start ground up.

How did IDOL BOY come about?

Idol Boy started a couple years ago for my obsession with 80’s punk rock culture that lead into Billy Idol. I looked at Billy as a huge inspiration for my style. The heavy chains, leather, spiked bleached hair, and even his melody approach. I used to tell all my friends I’m going to bring him back relevant to the younger kids. Once I really started making music I found myself studying him and many other artists in that time, which made me run with the name Idol Boy. I knew one day I’d drop a project so I saved the name for the right moment.

Have you noticed any growing trends in the industry these last few months?

I feel like the industry never stops growing and I honestly think the industry doesn’t even know what the trend is right now hahah. I feel like everyone’s searching for the new sound. I wanted Idol Boy to really stand out compared to what other people are making. My intention was to never make the EP for certain listeners or compare to other big artists and try to match. Stan Sono and V3ry Rich, the two producers who helped bring the production to life helped give me the confidence to believe in this new pop sound and also to trust it.

Where do you receive your inspiration from and/or how do you translate them through your creative talents?

Some big inspirations to me are 90’s Brit pop bands like Blur, to new wave punk, bands like joy division, artists like Gary Neuman, Prince, Bowie, The Smith, and god so many more I could go on for days. I’m an observer, so I study a lot of these artists and front-mans and take this knowledge and bring it to my own brand.

Last but certainly not least, what’s your motto or advice that you live by?

Advice that I try to live by is taking the word “What if” out of my vocabulary. I just do it. There’s no such thing as failure in my book. I just keep going. The moment you start to look too ahead and say “what if this doesn’t work out” only clouds your goals and success.

As 2019 is well underway – and spring is fast approaching – we’re ready to share the 2019 spring fashion trends you definitely need to know about. From sophisticated pastel suits to off the shoulder tops, we have the ultimate low down for you! Get ready to be one step ahead of everybody else this spring with these trends!

The Pastel Suit

One thing that is a must-have this spring – and what is definitely a 2019 spring fashion trend – the matching suit. Invest in a pastel matching suit for a sophisticated and classy look this spring!

The Peasant Top

We all know and love an off the shoulder top. But this year, there’s a new favorite top in town. We’re taking it a step further with the peasant top that sports a boxy neckline and exaggerated sleeves. Go beyond typical tees and stand out from the crowd! Plus, it’s a versatile purchase that can be dressed up or dressed down.

Matchy-Matchy

Sometimes we have to take a ride on the wild side and try something different. Dare to push yourself out of your comfort zone? Try matching top and bottoms of the same pattern for a bold look.  The extra detail will allow your outfit to have the ultimate wow-factor.

Mini Mini Bags

The micro purse trend has swept the nation, thanks to starlets like Bella Hadid and Kendal Jenner. Sure, a purse that can barely fit your ID and lipstick may not seem totally practical, but for the influencer world, a micro purse is the season’s hottest new accessory.