Arts + Public Life is proud to announce the grand reopening of the L1 Retail Store and to welcome Peter Gaona and his Reformed School back to the Arts Block as the 2025-26 Entrepreneur-in-Residence.

An alum of L1’s Creative Business Accelerator Fellowship, Peter is beginning a 15-month residency at L1 dedicated to growing and expanding his creative business. On March 28, we’re kicking things off with an evening of fashion, artistry, and community.

You will have the first look at a fresh collection of Peter’s handmade wearable art, along with the release of a limited-edition Reformed School pin, available exclusively in-store. The evening will also feature:

• Hat sizing by Dandy Kingzman

• L1 Alumni products Hyde & Park Co., Red Elephant Candle Co. and Hemp Heals Body Shop curated by Peter

• Live patch sewing - bring your denim for a custom touch

• Coloring pages featuring Reformed School’s iconic cultural figures 

• Drinks, treats, and more!

More than a celebration, this event signals the beginning of a year of activations designed to highlight the L1 Retail Store as a vital hub for entrepreneurship and collaboration on the South Side.

Join us as we welcome Peter back, toast to his next chapter, and shop a collection that speaks to artisanship and culture.

Register below and let us know you are coming!