Recent cool evenings are beginning to hint at the coming wonders of autumn, especially the spectacular displays of color. Nature Artists’ Guild exhibits, paint-outs, a program, and a workshop (as well as a selection of classes offered by The Morton Arboretum) will help with exploring and celebrating these wonders.

• Registrations are now being accepted for the September 3 paint-out at the Grand Garden at The Morton Arboretum. Colors from subtle to gloriously bold can be expected!

• The Guild’s summer special exhibit, Rooted in Observation: Art Inspired by the Living World, at the Bloomingdale Park District Museum, will continue until September 12.

• In just a few weeks, prospectuses for the 2026 Autumn Exhibit at the Morton Arboretum and Fauna, the display of 8 x 8 works honoring the Arboretum, will be emailed to members. (New members who join the Guild before the prospectus due date will be eligible to participate in these exhibits.)

• The Nature Artists’ Guild will sponsor a program by oil pastel artist George Shipperly on the evening of Thursday, October 1, at The Morton Arboretum. This presentation will be free and open to the public, and no registration will be required. More details coming soon.

• The gardens of Cantigny Park will welcome Guild members for a paint-out on October 7. Registration is recommended, and more about this event will be coming soon.

• A return of the free workshop for Guild members, Wood Slice Ornaments with Lindsay Sandbothe, will be held on October 10. Registration is required, and only a few spots remain for this popular event.

• For those who want to learn a new skill or increase their skills with expert instruction, The Morton Arboretum has updated its schedule of classes to include some old favorites as well as new and unique offerings. These classes are open to all, and registration fees apply.

• And for those who just want to drop by to enjoy the wonderful sights and sounds of The Morton Arboretum on a weekday morning without the crowds, the Guild’s Coffee and Art gatherings continue each Wednesday, beginning at about 9:30 in the Visitor Center.