The Wonder Walk
A Chicago Discovery Tour
In a world of rushed sightseeing and instant photos, The Wonder Walk invites you into a heart-centered journey of discovery, where we slow down to find the extraordinary hiding in plain sight. Inspired by Sister Corita Kent's revolutionary approach to seeing, this intimate walking tour transforms Chicago's familiar spaces into a canvas of wonder and possibility.
About the Experience
Starting at the historic Chicago Cultural Center, our journey weaves through the heart of the city to the serene Lurie Garden. Along the way, you'll learn to slow down, look closely, and discover not just the beauty hiding in plain sight, but also the joy of shared discovery.
Experience Elements
-
Discovery Kit Introduction
15 minutes
Your custom viewfinder becomes a tool for transformation, helping you frame unexpected viewpoints and find patterns in the urban landscape.
-
Urban Exploration
2 Hours
Journey through Chicago's most visually rich environments, using Sister Corita Kent's techniques for deep looking and pattern recognition.
-
Reflection & Integration
30 Minutes
Gather at Lurie Garden to share discoveries and integrate new ways of seeing into daily life.
-
Community Lunch
1 Hour
Continue the conversation and build connections over a shared meal (dutch treat).
What’s Included
A curated 2.5-hour journey through Chicago's most fascinating spaces
Custom discovery kit with viewfinder, materials, and custom-designed art print
Artist-led explorations of hidden patterns and unexpected beauty
Intimate group size (max 15 participants) ensuring personal attention
Optional group lunch gathering afterward
(not included in ticket price)
Workshop Details
Duration: 2.5 hours
Start Location: Chicago Cultural Center
End Location: Lurie Garden
Weather: Tours run rain or shine
Mobility: Moderate walking required
Your Guide
John Robert Hatherly is a Chicago-based multidisciplinary artist, designer, facilitator, and podcast host whose practice explores the intersection of color, contemplation, and human connection. Known for creating expansive, hyper-color abstract art and immersive experiences, they approach each workshop as part of "The Infinite Search" - an ongoing exploration of art's power to transform and illuminate.
Drawing from years of experience in both creating and exhibiting meditative artworks, John facilitates workshops with the same sense of wonder and playful exploration that characterizes their artistic practice. Their approach combines technical expertise in color theory and composition with a deep appreciation for art as a spiritual practice.
The workshop format emerged organically from John's belief that mastery takes generations and that true learning happens in the space where curiosity meets community. Through Sondwerk—whose name combines the Spanish "sondar" (to seek) with the German "werk" (to work)—they create containers for both individual discovery and collective meaning-making.
John finds particular joy in creating intimate spaces where others can access their own creative potential.
FAQs
-
Comfortable walking shoes
Weather-appropriate clothing
Water bottle
Smartphone or camera (optional)
Your sense of curiosity
-
The Wonder Walk is designed for anyone seeking to:
Discover Chicago differently
Develop mindful observation skills
Find creativity in everyday spaces
Connect with fellow explorers
Build a practice of wonder
-
Moderate, with frequent stops. We cover approximately 1.5 miles over 2.5 hours, with plenty of opportunities to pause and observe.
-
Book 2-3 weeks in advance to ensure availability. Custom programming may require additional lead time.
-
Yes, our private group experience can be customized for teams and special events. Contact us to discuss your vision.
-
Full refund: up to 7 days before
-
Upon booking, you'll receive a welcome guide with preparation suggestions and meeting point details. No specific experience needed—just bring your curiosity!
Cheryl B.
“I thought after living in Chicago for almost 30 years, I had seen just about everything in the city’s downtown. After attending a walking tour led by John Hatherly, I realized just how wrong I was. It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the city that you miss all of the small details that make this city so unique. The tour started with an intention given to us by Hatherly to help focus our mind and hone in on what was around us. To help, we were given a small window viewfinder that channeled our sight to the small details the city has to offer. On the 2hr round trip walk we stopped at different spots of interest to really look at everything around us. From colors, to graffiti, to architectural details, to cracks in the sidewalk, everything came alive and became of interest. I highly recommend going on a walking tour with John if you are ready to look at the world in a new way.”
Book Our Next Walk
Booking Options
Wonder Walk Experience
$35/person
Up to 15 participants
2.5-hour guided journey
Custom discovery kit
Limited edition art print
Optional group lunch
Pre-walk materials
Private Group Experience
Contact for custom quote
Custom timing available
Up to 15 participants
Personalized route options
Extended discussion time
Documentation available
Team integration focus
Custom Programming
For institutions seeking ongoing partnerships
Flexible group sizes
Multiple session options
Integration with existing programs
Specialized themes available
Educational adaptations