Book and paper artist Don Widmer will share inspirations and techniques for depicting nature and other subjects using “detailed pulp painting with numerous layers of stenciled pulp” at the Thornhill Education Center of The Morton Arboretum on October 3, 2024 from 7 until 9 pm.

Book and paper artist Don Widmer’s widely collected and exhibited work began as mostly monochromatic pieces. He credits birds as his inspiration to begin adding color to his work. “One day several years ago I got invited to exhibit at an Audubon art show in Madison, Wisconsin. I had never pulp painted a bird up to that point so I decided to give it a try. … I slowly expanded my color palette. The male grackle, for example, has tones of iridescent purple and blue. When I finally got to a cardinal, I knew I was on my way to embracing color.” Don also appreciates the way that the “feathery edges of handmade paper and the fibrous quality of pulp” complement his bird images.

All are invited to this presentation sponsored by the Nature Artists’ Guild of The Morton Arboretum. There will be no Guild or Arboretum membership requirement for entry to this event, and admission and parking are free of charge. Visitors can let the gate attendant at the Arboretum know they are there for the program to be admitted and directed to Thornhill. Plenty of seating and light refreshments will be available.