This weekend we joined the Logan Square Farmers Market in Chicago for a sold out Pop-Up Film Fest that included a screening of the 2016 short film finalists and winners, a behind the scenes look at the aquaponic operation at Metropolitan Farms and snacks by Chef in the Hood.
The afternoon kicked off at Silent Funny, a living and breathing arts space and community hub in Chicago’s West Humboldt Park. Before the screening, participants explored the industrial space including a series of rooms filled with a variety of mixed media art works. Nearly 40 of us gathered for the screening with opening remarks by Whitney Richardson, the Logan Square Market manager and Kris De la Torre, our Chicago based Programs and Communications manager. The screening was followed by a discussion of food issues and initiatives in the Chicago area before we walked the two short blocks to Metropolitan Farm.
Benjamin Kant, Founder/CEO of Metropolitan Farms dropping some knowledge.
At Metropolitan Farm we were met with a warm welcome by Benjamin Kant, the Founder/CEO. Ben shared his tremendous knowledge about the science and art of raising tilapia and growing nutritious greens in the middle of an industrial corridor. The farm’s mission is to grow fresh food in the city – right where it is eaten. By doing so, they hope their work will result in a healthier, more secure and environmentally sustainable food system. They are an aquaponic facility built over concrete, converting a vacant industrial site into a productive growing space. The event wrapped up with delicious snacks by Chef in the Hood including tilapia and watercress greens from the farm. We were thrilled to participate in such an inclusive community-driven event. Thanks to everyone who was able to make it and to Logan Square Farmers Market for hosting a great afternoon.
If you feel inspired to host your own Pop-Up Film Fest get in touch! We offer plenty of resources to plan your own film fest, big or small.
