Source International, in partnership with Level Reps, recently welcomed Chicago’s architecture and design community to our Chicago showroom for an evening that truly lived up to its name: Spark of Creativity: A Hands-On Experience with Emmy Star Brown.
An Evening Rooted in Expression
We were honored to host Emmy, whose work is deeply influenced by Chicago’s distinctive style, stories, and character. Known for her extroverted yet introspective visual language, Emmy generously shared insight into her creative process before guiding attendees through a hands-on printmaking experience.
Guests were invited to explore the art of printmaking, transferring custom inked imagery onto paper, a technique that historically revolutionized how imagery could be reproduced long before copy-and-paste or the modern print button existed. The beauty of printmaking lies in its ability to produce multiples while preserving the uniqueness of each impression. It is both a technical craft and a journey of exploration and discovery.
As ink met paper, the room shifted from observation to participation. Each guest created their own original piece, embracing spontaneity, imperfection, and play. Crafted beverages and light bites added to the warmth of the evening, as conversations flowed between fellow designers, artists, and collaborators.
Moments like this remind us that design is more than product, it is expression, connection, and collaboration.
About Emmy Star Brown
Emmy began her creative career earning a BFA in Visual Communications from the Illinois Institute of Art, launching into advertising at one of Chicago’s marquee agencies where she developed expertise in branding and packaging. From there, she stepped into her own studio practice, spending the past decade transforming public spaces across Chicago and beyond.
Her portfolio spans illustration, lettering, canvas work, branding, packaging, and murals. At the center of her diverse body of work is a series of creative partnerships with iconic brands including the Chicago Bulls,Lululemon, YETI, Red Bull, Delta Air Lines, T-Mobile, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, Vital Proteins, Foxtrot, and Soho House.
Her work has appeared in public spaces from Times Square to the Wynwood Art District and continues to evolve in both medium and message.
Today, her studio practice centers around the concept of the “Inner Child”, exploring joy, spontaneity, and creative fearlessness. Through layered color, emotive linework, and expressive composition, her work invites viewers to reconnect with imagination and presence.
A Shared Commitment to Creativity
At Source, we believe thoughtfully designed environments foster creativity and connection. Hosting events like Spark of Creativity allows us to bring together the design community not just around product, but around shared inspiration and artistic exploration.
We are grateful to Level Reps, to Emmy, and to the Chicago A&D community who joined us for an evening that truly sparked something special.