Matt Starr: Dream Baby Press & London Trip – Vogue Interview

The buzz around Matt Starr’s Dream Baby Press, and his recent feature in Vogue discussing a trip to London, feels particularly resonant here in Chicago. It’s not just about a New York artist gaining international recognition; it’s about the spirit of independent publishing and artistic experimentation—a spirit that’s very much alive and kicking in neighborhoods like Pilsen and Wicker Park. Starr’s approach, hosting readings in unconventional spaces, echoes the guerilla art scene that’s long defined parts of the city, and his commitment to fostering a community around his work feels like a direct response to the increasingly digital and often isolating world of modern art.

Dream Baby Press: A New York Aesthetic with Chicago Roots

Dream Baby Press, co-founded by Starr, isn’t your typical publishing house. As the Vogue article highlights, they’ve built a reputation for staging events in decidedly *un*traditional venues – a Sbarro in Penn Station, an East Village porn shop, even a boxing gym. This willingness to disrupt the expected is something Chicago’s art community understands well. Think of the pop-up galleries that spring up in vacant storefronts along Milwaukee Avenue, or the performance art pieces staged in the underpasses of the El. Starr’s vision, as detailed in his bio on matt-starr.com, is about making art accessible and engaging, stripping away the pretension that can often surround the literary world. This resonates with Chicago’s long-standing tradition of grassroots artistic movements.

From “Mouthful” to Viral Trends: Starr’s Multifaceted Career

Starr’s own work, starting with his debut poetry collection “Mouthful,” has garnered critical acclaim, with poems appearing in publications like The New Yorker. But his creativity doesn’t stop there. He’s a filmmaker, an artist, and, notably, the creator of the “Babycore” trend from 2015. This trend, which emphasized a carefree, childlike aesthetic, had a significant impact on fashion, influencing designers like Miley Cyrus and Jeremy Scott. The fact that something born from a New York artist’s vision could ripple through global fashion demonstrates the power of independent creativity. His subsequent project, “Amazon Boy,” where he delivered packages strapped to his back, further cemented his reputation for provocative and thought-provoking performance art. These projects, as documented in sources like Art in America, aren’t just about making a statement; they’re about challenging perceptions and sparking conversation.

The Intersection of Art, Film, and Community Building

Starr’s background is remarkably diverse. He’s not just a writer; he’s a filmmaker who remade Annie Hall with senior citizens (a project covered by The New York Times and CBS Sunday Morning), and a former director of the Lower East Side gallery Trotter & Sholer, where he curated shows featuring artists like Brontez Purnell and Mickey Boardman. This experience in curation speaks to his ability to identify and nurture talent, a skill that’s clearly evident in his work with Dream Baby Press. The gallery shows he curated were too widely covered, appearing in publications like Art Net and Office Magazine. This demonstrates a consistent ability to generate attention and build a following around his artistic endeavors.

Chicago’s Independent Publishing Scene: A Parallel Universe

Chicago boasts a thriving independent publishing scene of its own. Organizations like the Poetry Foundation, located in the historic Printers Row neighborhood, provide resources and support for poets and writers. Local bookstores like Unabridged Bookstore in Lincoln Park and Volumes Bookcafe in Wicker Park actively champion independent presses and host readings by emerging authors. The spirit of experimentation and community engagement that defines Dream Baby Press is mirrored in these local initiatives. The Chicago Cultural Center frequently hosts art exhibitions and performances, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work in a public space. The city’s commitment to the arts, supported by organizations like the Illinois Arts Council, creates a fertile ground for creative expression.

Navigating the Landscape: Local Resources for Creative Support in Chicago

Given my background in arts administration and community development, if the energy surrounding Matt Starr’s work and Dream Baby Press inspires you here in Chicago, here are three types of local professionals you might want to connect with:

Independent Publishing Consultants

If you’re considering self-publishing or starting your own small press, a consultant can provide invaluable guidance on everything from editing and design to marketing and distribution. Look for someone with a proven track record of helping authors navigate the complexities of the publishing industry, and who understands the unique challenges and opportunities of the Chicago market. Experience with local printing companies and distribution networks is a plus.

Arts & Culture Lawyers

Protecting your intellectual property and navigating the legal aspects of artistic creation is crucial. An arts and culture lawyer can advise you on copyright law, contract negotiation, and other legal matters. Seek out a lawyer who specializes in representing artists and creative businesses, and who has a deep understanding of the legal landscape in Illinois. Familiarity with grant applications and funding opportunities is also beneficial.

Grant Writers for the Arts

Funding is often a major hurdle for artists and independent publishers. A skilled grant writer can help you identify and apply for grants from foundations, government agencies, and other funding sources. Look for someone with a strong track record of success in securing funding for arts and cultural projects, and who is familiar with the grant-making priorities of organizations in the Chicago area. Experience with organizations like the Illinois Arts Council is highly valuable.

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