United States

Chicago

Lawrence Agyei 

 is a city known for its balance: its got all the draws of a typical major US city - a wealth of restaurants, respected galleries, a world-class music scene. Yet unlike the 'if you-know, you-know' snobbery of

, Chicago has the warmth and openness of a much smaller place. It carries all the creative credentials of a cosmopolitan capital, but without the arrogance of its counterparts.

 moved to Chicago as a teenager. He built a career in the Midwest capital and has established himself as one of the city's most exciting emerging contemporary portrait photographers with work appearing in publications such as

. He strives to document and reflect the times we live in - with a focus on immigration, he intimately captures his subjects while subtly weaving in Chicago's palettes, fashion and moods in the backdrop. 

In the guide below, he shares where he finds creative inspiration in the city: 

One of my absolute favourite galleries in the city. They’ve hosted incredible shows with contemporary artists from all over the world. The Gabriel Moses exhibition they did still sticks with me—it was that good.

Tucked downstairs in the Hoxton Hotel, this cocktail lounge has quickly become my Friday night go-to. Super intimate with live music Wednesday through Sunday—it feels like a hidden gem.

Hands down one of the best restaurants in the city. The soul food here is unreal. I always go for the mac and cheese, cornbread, and blackened catfish—life-changing combo. Beyond the food, the space has become a hub for creatives. There’s a powerful Dawoud Bey photograph on the wall, beautiful paintings throughout, and the music always sets the right vibe.

A cozy cocktail and record lounge that feels like home. Every first Wednesday they host a jazz night, and on Tuesdays you can bring your own vinyl to play. One of the wildest nights there was when Anderson .Paak randomly showed up and DJed the entire night.

My favourite gallery in Chicago, no question. I make it a point to attend every exhibition they put on. The team cares deeply about the artists they represent, and you can feel that love in every show.

A lounge/restaurant right in the heart of Bronzeville. The neighborhood itself carries so much history—it was once called the Black Renaissance neighbourhood, home to writers, photographers, and musicians. The food and drinks are amazing, and on certain nights they bring in DJs who spin soul, house, and jazz. I go there just to relax and vibe.

My favourite photography gallery in the city. They feature legendary photographers like Dawoud Bey, Robert Frank, and Alex Webb. Once, I even got a look at some of their archival pieces, and it left me inspired for weeks.

Mariane Ibrahim Gallery

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