Tips for a Perfect Day in Philadelphia from Fiber Artist Caitlin McCormack

In the heart of Philadelphia, fiber artist Caitlin McCormack crafts poignant narratives around queerness, isolation, and loss through her intricate textile and hand-crocheted sculptures. Drawing upon a diverse range of influences—from folklore and medieval botanical imagery to institutional osteological displays, such as those at the Wagner Free Institute—McCormack’s work resonates deeply with themes of humanity and the natural world. Her artistry has garnered attention at renowned venues including the Elijah Wheat Showroom, Hashimoto Contemporary, and The Mütter Museum, while her upcoming solo exhibitions are eagerly anticipated at the Dina Wind Foundation in South Philadelphia and Philadelphia International Airport in January 2026.

McCormack’s artistic journey often intertwines with her day-to-day existence in the city. As a dedicated user of public transportation, she can often be seen traversing Philadelphia on foot, transforming her daily commute into a tapestry of experiences. The first Saturday of each month stands out to her as an ideal day, depending on the timely operation of local transit systems.

Her day typically commences at 7 a.m., where a tranquil breakfast with her black cat, Canyon, is the prelude to her creative endeavors. By 8:20 a.m., she finds herself at Solar Myth, a vibrant café where she enjoys an oat cortado while immersing herself in a book. The morning unfolds with a carefully orchestrated route that includes a ride on the Broad Street Line to the Germantown Kitchen Garden. There, McCormack engages with the fresh produce, often picking up seasonal favorites.

At noon, she arrives at the Wagner Free Institute, taking advantage of its Saturday open house to deepen her artistic practice. Surrounded by fossils and historic specimens, she utilizes her sketchbook to draw inspiration from the collection, reflecting the intersection of art and science.

As the afternoon progresses, McCormack heads to her studio located at 319 N 11th Street, where she dedicates time to her craft. The comfort of Chinatown calls to her next, where she enjoys handmade dumplings at Ray’s Coffee House. This is followed by a stop at the Curtis Building to admire “The Dream Garden,” a stunning mural crafted from Tiffany glass.

In the evening, McCormack meets her partner for a leisurely exploration of local bookstores before indulging in the culinary delight of a tofu banh mi from Ba Le Bakery, widely regarded as one of the city’s best sandwiches. Her day winds down with a cozy cinematic experience at a local theater and perhaps a final drink at The Good King Tavern, embodying the vibrant cultural tapestry that Philadelphia offers.

Ultimately, her journey encapsulates not only the rhythm of city life but also the rich intersections of art, community, and personal narrative that define her work. As she returns home to Canyon by 10:30 p.m., McCormack’s day is a testament to the creative spirit thriving within the urban landscape.

This exploration of daily life serves as a reminder of the importance of community and personal expression, showcasing how the mundane can be transformed into meaningful art. McCormack’s ongoing projects continue to engage audiences and invite discourse around critical themes of identity and belonging.

The artist’s contributions to the Philadelphia arts scene stand out, capturing both the complexity of the human experience and the intricate beauty found within everyday moments.

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