Category: Programs

Exhibits, Paint-Outs, and Programs Coming Soon!

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The Joy of Plants, copyright Patricia Joyce.

The next few months will be filled with opportunities for members of the Nature Artists’ Guild to share, sketch, and learn, all while enjoying the company of fellow artists.

  • The Thornhill Education Center of The Morton Arboretum will be the location for the Nature Artists’ Guild’s trio of artist demonstrations on the evening of June 4, 2026, beginning at 7. Three talented Guild members will share their inspirations, methods, and materials at this popular annual event. The program will be open to all, free of charge, and registration is not required.
  • On June 11, 2026 (rain date June 12), Anne and Charles Bouchard will share their professionally designed and beautifully updated private garden in Glen Ellyn, IL, with members of the Guild from 9:30 until noon. Guild members can register here for this event, the first of four different private garden paint-outs scheduled for this summer.
  • Initial preparations for this summer’s Nature Artists’ Guild exhibit at the Bloomingdale Park District Museum have begun, and prospectuses will be emailed to all members next month. The exhibit will run from August 8 until September 12, 2026, and will include member demonstrations and an opening reception. Guild members will have the opportunity to enter work previously exhibited at The Morton Arboretum or juried by email photos.
  • Guild members can use this busy time of wildlife activity to begin their contributions to this autumn’s special display of 8 x 8 works honoring the Arboretum, “Fauna.” Each member will be eligible to include up to three unframed works, which must be 8 x 8 inches, less than 1/2 inch deep, and inspired by the fauna of the Arboretum. (Examples of last year’s small works display, “Flora,” can be seen here.)
  • As always, Guild members (and guests) are invited to attend a casual Wednesday morning gathering at the Visitor Center of The Morton Arboretum, Coffee and Art. This friendly and welcoming group of artists spends a few hours each week chatting, sketching, or just enjoying the morning sights and sounds of the Arboretum. No registration is required.

More details about these and more events coming soon!

Nancie King Mertz March 5, 2026, at The Morton Arboretum

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Detail of plein-air pastel painting by Nancie King Mertz

Award-winning pastel artist Nancie King Mertz will demonstrate and discuss her materials, methods, and inspirations at The Morton Arboretum on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 7 until 9 pm.

What a magnificent opportunity to watch a world-renowned pastel artist in action! Nancie will bring some of her completed paintings for in-person viewing, along with her hand-selected private label sets of Richeson Soft Handmade Pastels. Copies of her demonstration source photo will be shared with the audience so they can visually follow along as she works.

This program, sponsored by the Nature Artists’ Guild, is open to the public free of charge. There will also be no charge for parking or admission to The Morton Arboretum for the event. No registration is required, and visitors can let the Arboretum gate attendant know they are there for the program to be directed to the Thornhill Education Center.

Plenty of seating and complimentary light refreshments will be available.

Master Pastelist Nancie King Mertz at The Morton Arboretum on March 5, 2026

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Plein-air pastel painting, copyright Nancie King Mertz

The Nature Artists’ Guild is thrilled to sponsor a program and demonstration by 2025 Pastel Society of America Hall of Fame Honoree Nancie King Mertz on the evening of Thursday, March 5, 2026, at The Morton Arboretum.

Lifetime pastel and oil painter Nancie King Mertz has been awarded the highest honors by the International Association of Pastel Societies and the Pastel Society of America and was twice named “Chicago Artist of the Year” by the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau. Nancie is also a long-term member of the Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Arts, the Degas Pastel Society, Plein Air Painters Chicago, and the Chicago Pastel Painters.

All are invited to attend a presentation and demonstration by Nancie on March 5, from 7 until 9 pm, at the Thornhill Education Center of The Morton Arboretum. The program will be open to the public, free of charge, and there will be no charge for parking or admission to the Arboretum for this event. Plenty of seating and delicious light refreshments will be available. No registration is required, and visitors can let the gate attendant know they are there for the program to be admitted and directed to Thornhill.

Plein-air pastel painting, copyright Nancie King Mertz

Nature (and the Guild) are Preparing for Spring!

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Harbingers of Spring – Daffodils, copyright Cheryl Holz. Cheryl will be the Featured Artist of the Nature Artists’ Guild’s 2026 Spring Exhibit at The Morton Arboretum.

Even though there are weeks to go before spring, nature and the Nature Artists’ Guild are eagerly preparing for the longer and warmer days ahead.

According to the DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center, February in Chicagoland means that –

  • Red-winged blackbirds, grackles, killdeer, and great blue herons return
  • Chipmunks reappear at feeders
  • Bald eagles begin nesting behavior
  • Yellow-bellied sapsuckers work the maples as the sap begins to run
  • Hibernating butterflies emerge on warm days
  • Sandhill cranes can be seen migrating north
  • It is breeding season for racoons, woodchucks, rabbits, skunks, opossums, and beavers!

For the Nature Artists’ Guild, February also means that –

Members will receive (by email this week) their prospectus and registration instructions for the 2026 Spring Exhibit at The Morton Arboretum. The exhibit will be held April 17, 18, and 19, 2026, and the final date for registering (either online or by mail) will be March 21. Much more about the exhibit and Featured Artist Cheryl Holz coming soon.

In just a few weeks, the March program sponsored by the Nature Artists’ Guild will be held at the Thornhill Education Center of The Morton Arboretum. This event on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 7 until 9 will be free and open to all and will feature award-winning pastel artist Nancie King Mertz as the presenter. Much more about the program to come soon.

Guild members will be visiting the Jurica-Suchy Nature Museum for a “paint-in” on Thursday, March 12, from 9:30 until noon. (Drop-ins are welcome, but registration is recommended in order to receive email updates and details.) More coming soon.

Guild members can begin thinking about their contributions to the Guild’s annual special exhibit showcasing 8 x 8-inch pieces. This year’s display, “Fauna,” will be inspired by the native mammals, fish, insects, birds, amphibians, and spiders that can be found at The Morton Arboretum. (Detailed instructions for members will be shared later in the year, and “Fauna” will be exhibited in November alongside the Guild’s annual autumn exhibit at the Arboretum.)

Many members are excited to participate each year in a popular local event for nature artists, the Danada Nature Art and Photo Show (not affiliated with the Nature Artists’ Guild.) This year’s exhibit will be held on March 14th and 15th, and the final day to apply will be March 1. Details and the registration form can be found on the Friends of Danada website.

“Intersection of Nature, Science, and Art” with Kristin Field Tomorrow at 7

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Textile art by Kristin Field

In tomorrow evening’s presentation, textile artist Kristin Field will discuss “her natural dyeing practice, her experience growing dye plants in Chicago over the last 7 years, her soil chromatography work, and past and current textile projects inspired by the intersection of nature, science, and art. – fieldandgardner.com

Members of the Nature Artists’ Guild were recently emailed a link and instructions for attending the online program, which begins at 7 pm.

Textile Artist Kristin Field, February 5, 2026

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Fiber art, Kristin Field

“Inspired by the intersection of nature, science, and art,” beautifully describes both the process and the finished works by textile artist Kristin Field. Kristin will share some of that inspiration in an online presentation, sponsored by the Nature Artists’ Guild of The Morton Arboretum, on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 7 pm.

Dyed textiles, Kristin Field

Kristin Field is a textile artist, natural dyer, weaver, and gardener based in Chicago, IL. She is currently pursuing her MFA in Fiber and Material Studies at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Kristin grows dye plants like indigo, madder, and coreopsis in her small garden alongside food and cut flowers. She uses these plants to create naturally dyed textiles, and she extracts and works with natural pigments to make watercolor paints and inks. Through working with natural dyes, pigments, and fibers, she seeks to give attention and recognition to the subtle wonders that surround us in our everyday lives.

In this artist’s talk, Kristin will discuss her natural dyeing practice, her experience growing dye plants in Chicago over the last 7 years, her soil chromatography work, and past and current textile projects inspired by the intersection of nature, science, and art. – fieldandgardner.com

Members of the Nature Artists’ Guild will be emailed a link and instructions for attending this live online program, and guests may request a free link here. There will be time for questions at the end of the talk. (The program will not be recorded.)

Staying Busy (While Staying Warm)

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HEY… The Birdfeeder is Empty!, copyright Dan Danielson

The DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center reports that January, which might seem quiet in Chicagoland’s natural world, is actually quite busy! For instance –

  • Bald eagle migration peaks
  • Squirrels begin their mating season
  • Skunk cabbage begins to bloom
  • Great horned owls are on their nests
  • White-tailed deer bucks are shedding antlers
  • Tufted titmice and cardinals begin to sing

Members of the Nature Artists’ Guild also have a busy winter planned, but unlike those of the titmice, most of their activities can be enjoyed indoors while staying warm.

Tomorrow, January 18, a free reception for the Guild’s special exhibit at the Downers Grove Public Library will be held from 2 to 4. Everyone is invited to stop by the exhibit and support the artists while enjoying some light refreshments.

On Wednesday, January 21, Guild members are invited to stop by an informal gathering at the Wheaton Public Library at 11:30 to enjoy even more nature art by their fellow artists. Those interested in having lunch at nearby Bien Trucha afterward at 12:30 can RSVP here or by contacting Celia Rodee.

Nature Artists’ Guild members are encouraged to spend a quiet hour at home this month, looking through and photographing their spring-inspired artwork for possible inclusion in the upcoming issue of the Quarterly. Images, articles, and announcements can be emailed to Jane Kellenberger by February 1.

The annual paint-out at Orchids by Hausermann is scheduled for Thursday, February 5, from 7:30 until 10 am. This tropical destination is a favorite of Guild artists, who are invited to spend the morning, before the showroom opens, surrounded by gorgeous orchids in bloom. Space is limited, and registration is required.

Later in the evening of February 5, members (and guests who request a link) will be able to log in to join a Guild-sponsored online presentation by textile artist Kristin Field. Links to the program will be emailed the preceding week. (Much more about Kristin and her fascinating work coming soon.)

As always, members and visitors are welcome to stop by the Visitor Center of The Morton Arboretum any Wednesday morning about 9:30 to spend time chatting, sipping, and sketching with fellow artists at Coffee and Art.

Staying busy and staying warm!

A Look Back at 2025 with the Nature Artists’ Guild

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Winter Woods Edge, copyright Ann Lamoureux. Click on image for a look back at 2025 with the Nature Artists’ Guild.

2025 was a year of gatherings filled with laughter, learning, and sharing for members of the Nature Artists’ Guild of The Morton Arboretum.

The Guild’s artists enjoyed presentations (online and in person) by talented and renowned artists, attended paint-outs and field trips (accompanied by delicious treats) at stunning gardens and museums, and shared their artwork through exhibits at The Morton Arboretum (with record attendance!) and other locations. Weekly gatherings to sketch and chat, a fun fundraising workshop, and a holiday party also provided members with plenty of opportunities to meet, learn from, and enjoy the company of fellow artists.

Sample of images from 2025 –

  • Audubon exhibit at Field Museum
  • Field Museum paint-out
  • January Downers Grove Library exhibit
  • February paint-out at Orchids by Hausermann, copyright Kathi Kuchler
  • Paint-in at Jurica-Suchy Nature Museum
  • Rhonda Nass online presentation
  • Yum, A 5-lobed Chocolate Vine, copyright Rhonda Nass
  • Late winter, early spring preview
  • Joel Sheesley presentation at The Morton Arboretum
  • Kline Creek Sunrise Moonset, copyright Joel Sheesley
  • Spring 2025 Exhibit poster
  • Natures Bounty, copyright Deb Giampoli
  • Creek, copyright Patricia Joyce
  • Blackburnian Warbler, copyright Vicki Liszewski
  • Sweet Treat, copyright Vicki Liszewski
  • Peonies, watercolor, copyright Vicki Liszewski
  • Pretty in pink, copyright Lisa Kanellos
  • Resting Deer, copyright Jill Adzia
  • Paphiopedium Matchmaker Orchid, copyright Celia Rodee
  • Summer Shadows, copyright Maryann Wattelle
  • Spring exhibit demonstration
  • Spring exhibit demonstration
  • Spring exhibit demonstration
  • Spring exhibit demonstration
  • Spring exhibit demonstration
  • Spring exhibit demonstration
  • Daffodil Glade paint-out, Daffodils, copyright Alice Wych
  • Quarterly covers and pages
  • Lilacia Park paint-out
  • Driehaus museum, Rory McEwan exhibit
  • Copyright Rory McEwen
  • Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art field trip
  • At UIMA exhibit, Powdered ruffle lichen, copyright Sandra Wilcoxon
  • June paint-out
  • Summer exhibit at Hidden Oaks Nature Center
  • Summer Shades, copyright Patty Koenigsaecker
  • Pileated Woodpecker and Pokeweed, copyright Louise Daley
  • White Petunia II, copyright Marge Hall
  • Adriatic, copyright Cynthia Boudreau
  • Lamoureux garden paint-out, Woods Garden and Peter’s Pond, copyright Ann Lamoureux
  • Quarterly covers and pages
  • Ball Horticultural paint-out
  • Ball Horticultural paint-out
  • Sarah Johnson program at Thornhill
  • Artists’ Garden encore paint-out
  • Grand Garden at The Morton Arboretum paint-out
  • Autumn workshop
  • Cantigny Gardens paint-out
  • Autumn preview
  • Phil Schorn program
  • Luminous Succelent, copyright Phil Schorn
  • Autumn 2025 Exhibit poster
  • Autumn exhibit reception, Home, copyright Amy Malysa.
  • Looking Out, copyright Kathy Steere
  • Tigger Melon (Cucumis Melo), copyright Kumie Kim
  • Night Flyer, copyright Jeffrey Zawada
  • Skåne, copyright Carrie Carlson
  • The Scent of Spring, copyright Shuli Wang
  • First Snowfall, copyright Joanne May
  • Say Cheese, copyright Dan Danielson
  • Micromovement of Wings, Mandala I, copyright Cynthia Heinz
  • Autumn 2025 demonstration
  • Autumn 2025 demonstration
  • Autumn 2025 demonstration
  • Autumn 2025 demonstration
  • Autumn 2025 demonstration
  • Autumn 2025 demonstration
  • Flora 2025 special exhibit
  • A Riot of Bee Balm and Rudbeckia, copyright Maggie Capettini
  • Hydrangea Blossom, copyright Margie Navolio
  • Holiday party, Suzanne Wegener artwork
  • 2025 holiday cards preview
  • 2025 Holiday Card, copyright Nicolette Metz
  • 2025 Holiday Card, copyright Sandra Zeboski
  • 2025 Holiday Card, copyright Vicki Liszewski

The Nature Artists’ Guild is looking forward to welcoming back all our current members in 2026 and, hopefully, some new ones as well (an evolving schedule of events will be coming soon)! More about renewals and memberships is available here.

Autumn Color Coming Soon!

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Image by Cantigny.org, 2025 Autumn Exhibit postcard artwork by Kathy Steere, “Just Leaves by Phil Schorn

The colors of autumn are slowly arriving in Chicagoland, and the Nature Artists’ Guild will be there to welcome them with paints, pencils, paper, and canvas.

Coming in October –

  • Members participating in the 2025 Autumn Exhibit at The Morton Arboretum will need to register online or by mail by October 11. Much more about the exhibit and Featured Artist Kathy Steere to come in the next few weeks. Postcards and posters will be available for members to pick up at the October 2 meeting to share with friends, family, and local businesses.
  • Nature Artists’ Guild members and visitors will continue to meet each Wednesday morning at the Visitor Center of The Morton Arboretum to enjoy the company of fellow artists, as well as the stunning views surrounding them.