About Adrianne

Adrianne is standing in front of her store wearing a yellow jumpsuit, with her arms over her head and a very happy expression on her face.Ponnopozz is the studio of Chicago-based artist Adrianne Hawthorne. Adrianne comes from a graphic design background but prefers the act of making art with her own hands. She initially felt uneasy putting so much of herself out into the world, but has since felt a satisfaction that she never found in corporate America. Ponnopozz is named after two imaginary friends, Ponno and Pozzer, that the artist had as a child. The name is a daily reminder of the unbridled creativity of childhood that she continues to nurture through the act of painting and drawing.

On October 8, 2021, Adrianne expanded her storefront to a new location across the street from her old one. She wanted a permanent place to sell her work and showcase the work of others and she needed more space to make that vision a reality. Everything in the shop is from a local, independent maker or a small company. Adrianne believes in supporting other small businesses, especially those that are women-led and/or Black owned. 

The shop also serves as a community gathering space where everyone is welcome. You'll find a monthly storytelling event, guest vendor pop ups, cat birthday parties and even performances all within the walls of the "PonnoPlace!"

These days, Adrianne leaves the day-to-day of the store to her incredible team (although sometimes she's hiding out in the back). She creates new work at her home studio, including large works on canvas and smaller works on paper. Each year, she launches a new set of legging designs that she hand draws on her iPad. And she's started getting really into murals – her largest mural to date is under the Metra tracks at Berteau and Ravenswood Aves in Chicago!

Adrianne continues to be incredibly grateful for the creative life she's able to lead and all the new relationships she's developed as a result of this leap of faith.

To get in touch with Adrianne directly, please email her at adrianne@ponnopozz.com.

 

Photos by Gabby Jones