New this year! In partnership with the Design Museum of Chicago, NeoCon attendees are invited to experience INSIDE DESIGN, a curated series of exclusive, design-driven events throughout the city. These immersive experiences will showcase and celebrate Chicago's vibrant creative community. Registration for INSIDE DESIGN experiences is now open
Sponsored by:
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Step into the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry for a curated exploration of design, engineering, and innovation. This immersive tour offers an insider’s look at how design shapes storytelling in one of the nation’s most dynamic museums.
What’s included:
Home Base & Refreshments – Relax in a designated space to gather, connect, and enjoy light refreshments before diving into the experience.
Exhibit Tours – Join MSI’s Exhibits Team for exclusive guided tours of:
The Steelmakers Exhibit, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship behind industrial design.
The Great Train Story Exhibit, a masterful model railroad that tells the story of rail travel’s role in shaping urban landscapes.
Curatorial Pop-Up Chat – Meet curator Voula Saridakis for an engaging discussion featuring select items from MSI’s vast collection, offering a rare glimpse into the design and history behind these artifacts.
Special Exhibition Access – Reserved tickets for two immersive experiences:
Blue Paradox, a visually stunning journey into ocean conservation.
U505, an immersive exploration of historic engineering and design innovation aboard a legendary WWII submarine.
Who Should Attend?
Designers and educators seeking inspiration from science and innovation
Artists and storytellers exploring exhibit design and curation
Community leaders & cultural partners interested in the intersection of design and public engagement
Fee: $125.00
Registration is required. Roundtrip transportation from THE MART to the tour location is provided.
Kimski
Immerse yourself in the vibrant intersection of food and street art at Kimski, where culinary innovation meets urban expression. This unique event, hosted by Chef Won Kim, offers a blend of art, culture, and cuisine in a one-of-a-kind setting.
What’s included:
Curated Dining Experience – Enjoy a specially crafted meal by Chef Won Kim, known for his boundary-pushing fusion of Korean and Polish flavors, set in the heart of Chicago’s creative culinary scene.
Guided Graffiti Design Session – Step into the world of street art with a hands-on graffiti design session, where Chef Won Kim—also an acclaimed street artist—will lead guests in exploring the techniques, colors, and messages behind urban art.
Create & Take Home Your Own Piece – Attendees will have the opportunity to design their own graffiti-inspired artwork, celebrating self-expression through this dynamic visual medium.
Who Should Attend?
Foodies & creatives who love the fusion of culinary and visual arts
Artists & designers looking to explore graffiti as a storytelling tool
Cultural enthusiasts eager for a hands-on creative experience
Fee: $125.00
Registration is required. Roundtrip transportation from THE MART to the tour location is provided.
Ramova Theatre
Experience the thoughtful restoration of Ramova Theatre, a Chicago landmark brought back to life through a fusion of historic preservation and contemporary design. This exclusive tour invites participants to explore the transformation of this once-abandoned gem into a thriving community hub.
What’s Included:
Guided Architectural Tour – Walk through the newly restored theatre with Architect Dan O’Riley (O’Riley Office) and owners Tyler and Emily Nevius, who will share insights into the delicate balance of heritage preservation and modern innovation.
Brand & Design Conversation – Hear from Someoddpilot, the creative team behind Ramova’s branding and visual identity, as they discuss the inspiration, typography, and graphic elements that bring the space to life.
Social Hour at the On-Site Brewery – End the experience with drinks at Ramova’s brewery, celebrating the fusion of design, accessibility, and community collaboration.
Who Should Attend?
Architects and designers passionate about historic preservation
Community builders & developers interested in adaptive reuse projects
Brand strategists & creatives exploring place-based storytelling
Fee: $125.00
Registration is required. Roundtrip transportation from THE MART to the tour location is provided.
You Are Beautiful Studio
Join artist Matthew Hoffman for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at his iconic You Are Beautiful studio, where uplifting design meets public art. This interactive event is a rare opportunity to step inside the creative space behind one of Chicago’s most recognizable and inspiring art movements.
What’s included:
Studio Tour – Go behind the curtain of the You Are Beautiful studio, where Matthew Hoffman will share insights into his creative process, large-scale installations, and the philosophy behind his work.
Hands-On Workshop – Get creative in a guided workshop, where you’ll design and craft your own personalized “You Are Beautiful” artwork to take home—spreading positivity through design.
Community & Conversation – Engage in open dialogue with Matthew Hoffman, exploring the role of public art in urban spaces, social connection, and creative activism.
Who Should Attend?
Artists and designers looking for creative inspiration
Public art advocates interested in community engagement
Anyone who loves uplifting design and hands-on experiences
Fee: $125.00
Registration is required. Roundtrip transportation from THE MART to the tour location is provided.
