The idea of FLYPAPER CHICAGO was inspired by “The Sweet Flypaper of Life”, a 1955 book of photography and poetry by Roy DeCarava and Langston Hughes,

a mesmerizing masterpiece that contextualizes storytelling seamlessly through the art of photography and poetry, resulting in a harmonious symphony of visual and literary expression. Each medium enhances the other, creating a synergy that elevates their artistic impact. The photographs by DeCarava inspire Hughes' verses, enabling him to delve into the depths of human experience, while the poetry breathes life into the images, infusing them with a layers of colorful context.

“Ideas are birthed on paper”, says Founder & Award Winning Multidisciplinary Artist, Clifton Henri. Influenced by the works of Roy DeCarava, Norman Rockwell, Gordon Parks, Langston Hughes, Paul Lawrence Dunbar and James Baldwin , Henri fell in love with the art of sharing stories and emotions through photography, illustration and poetry.

Creating a brand and space that celebrates the power of both the written word and Works-on-Paper has been a dream of Henri’s since he was a youth.“Sharing our story and feelings on paper allows our experiences to take new form and live on their own in the real world - planting seeds in the minds of audiences and inspiring fresh thoughts and perspectives.”

FLYPAPER CHICAGO is not only a space that celebrates Works-on-Paper that delve into the depths of human experience both visual and literary but also a design brand that offers product lines that inspire and encourage expression.

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