Embedded Files
rooted in movement. built for artists. powered by community.
about [CHAMBER]
about [CHAMBER]
serving Chicagoland, Chamber Creative is a nonprofit space for movement, art, and healing.
we support artists, movers, and community members through programs that nurture creativity, wellness, and deeper connection.
rooted in street and concert dance traditions, [CHAMBER] offers training, performance, and wellness experiences that help people come home to their bodies and explore new ways of expressing and growing.
our work comes to life through signature programs like Somaflow, our approach to embodied creativity and regulation; artistic development opportunities for creatives of all kinds; and creative media services that document and elevate community-driven work. whether you’re a dancer, educator, healer, or organizer — you belong here.
we believe movement is medicine, creativity is culture, and collaboration is the future.
the directors' story
the directors' story
Emjay Mendez and Ellaine Manuel are Filipino American movement artists who’ve spent decades training, teaching, and performing in both the commercial and underground dance worlds.
together, they share a deep love for intentional movement, community care, and building more sustainable pathways for artists.
Emjay brings years of experience as a creative entrepreneur, building projects across choreography, film, community events, and brand development. his cinematic eye and collaborative spirit complement Ellaine’s training-based approach and deep interest in the body’s healing potential — shaped by her background in physical therapy, where she helped clients reconnect with movement and rebuild trust in their bodies.
the two come together to form a dynamic partnership rooted in movement as a vehicle for truth and transformation.
“chamber” reflects the body as a vessel — a space that holds memory, rhythm, and energy.
it also speaks to our values: to create room for people, ideas, and stories that often go unseen.
our mission
our mission
to support holistic development in artists and communities through movement, wellness, and creative collaboration.
our vision
our vision
a world where creativity is accessible, healing is communal, and artists are equipped to lead the future.
our core values
our core values
integrity — we honor both the grind and the grace.
collaboration — we work better when we build together.
wellness — we prioritize rest, regulation, and wholeness.
creativity — we believe play and imagination are powerful tools for change.
cultural rootedness — we hold space for ancestral memory, lived experience, and cultural pride.
Page updated
Report abuse