By Katelyn Sabater
Medill Reports

Refinery29 finally brought the Instagram worthy, interactive exhibit to Chicago at 1522 W Hubbard St. After popping up in New York City, Los Angeles and San Francisco, residents got to experience this year’s theme: Turn It Into Art.

Refinery29 is a media and entertainment company focused on women with a global audience of 425 million across all platforms. Their mission is to be a catalyst for women to feel, see, and claim their power through their storytelling.

“29Rooms is where you can experience Refinery 29’s imaginative spirit in real life,” says Executive Creative Director Piera Gelardi.

The pop-up fun house was comprised of 29 unique spaces that displayed a range of creative disciplines where they collaborate with a broad assortment of artists. Local Chicago collaborators were included, such as poet Raych Jackson.

“When Refinerey 29 and I connected I was very grateful. I love Chicago! I’m from here,” Jackson said. “The ChicagoScape room is an ode to Chicago but also an ode to Chicagoans. We make this city. We’re a unique force that I hope everyone felt when they walked around the room.”

Every room contained its own theme, allowing for interaction among attendees in fun and unique ways. Some of our favorite displays included spaces that collaborated with actress Emma Roberts, where guests are greeted by dozens of empty books where they can write a story and a room lined with hand-painted punching bags and gloves, each bag featuring sayings such as “The Future is Female” and “Stay Strong.”

If you didn’t get a chance to attend 29Rooms, get a glimpse inside with a video of our favorite rooms!