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

Caitlin McCormack, a notable fiber artist based in Philadelphia, delves into themes of queerness, isolation, and loss through her intricate textile and hand-crocheted sculptures. Drawing inspiration from various sources, including medieval botanical imagery, folklore, and osteological displays, McCormack’s work resonates with audiences across multiple platforms, including exhibitions at the Elijah Wheat Showroom and Hashimoto Contemporary. Her art reflects a deep engagement with personal and cultural narratives, as she prepares for upcoming solo exhibitions at the Dina Wind Foundation and the Philadelphia International Airport, scheduled for early 2026.

Living without a car, McCormack relies on public transportation, navigating the city’s rich cultural landscape primarily on foot. A perfect day for her typically coincides with the first Saturday of the month, assuming public transit operates smoothly to facilitate her artistic explorations. Her morning routine is a blend of quiet reflection and preparation for a busy day ahead, beginning with quality time spent with her cat, Canyon, accompanied by a healthy breakfast.

Starting at 7 a.m., McCormack enjoys her first coffee while unwinding from the previous day. By 8:20 a.m., she makes her way to Solar Myth, a local café, where she indulges in an oat cortado and immerses herself in her current read, “Madame de Pompadour” by Nancy Mitford, all while enjoying the café’s ambient jazz.

By mid-morning, she boards public transportation to visit the Germantown Kitchen Garden, where she enthusiastically selects seasonal produce, often enjoying a snack of fresh cherry tomatoes. Following this, a visit to Uncle Bobbie’s, a bookstore and café, allows her to savor the inviting ambiance further.

Attending the Saturday open house at the Wagner Free Institute later in the day, McCormack finds inspiration in the museum’s collection of biological and geological artifacts. Here, she brings her sketchbook to capture the fascinating skeletal specimens, benefiting from the unique environment the institute provides.

Throughout her day, McCormack embraces her creative spirit, working in her studio in the afternoon and savoring dumplings at Ray’s Coffee House. As she continues to explore the city, she takes in the public art, finding delight in the famed Maxfield Parrish mural, “The Dream Garden,” located in the Curtis Building.

McCormack’s evenings are spent with her partner James, as they explore local bookstores for thought-provoking literature and enjoy culinary delights like the celebrated tofu banh mi from Ba Le Bakery. They often unwind at local bars, for instance, The Good King Tavern, sampling crafted cocktails before concluding their vibrant day.

This immersive routine highlights not just McCormack’s artistic dedication but her engagement with Philadelphia’s cultural fabric, intertwining her life as an artist with her experiences as a city dweller. Through her day-to-day activities, McCormack exemplifies the enriching interplay between art, community, and personal identity.

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