Joseph Regenstein, Jr. School of the Chicago Botanic Garden

THIS MONTH: Voices of the Land. (E) Geography, climate, glaciation and fire came together to create the marvelously diverse physical and biological landscapes that constitute the Chicago region: prairies, woodlands, marshes, rivers and lakes. In the three centuries since the arrival of Europeans, the land and its creatures have changed markedly; so have the attitudes of the people who live here. With music, readings and slides, this presentation tells that story of change thorough the words of those who were here: visitors, settlers, naturalists, hunters, poets, journalists and others.

This presentation is part of the Garden's Free Public Lecture Series and is made possible by a grant from Illinois Humanities Council, the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Illinois General Assembly.

Sunday, June 1, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., Alsdorf Auditorium. (FREE)

WORKSHOP SERIES: Willow Furniture Workshops with Bim Willow. (E) Furniture crafted of bent willow is a form of early American folk art. Their simple yet elegant lines graced the front porches of America until the 1930s, when modern furniture moved in. Master furniture maker Bim Willow has resurrected this craft, and will share with you how to create your own piece of rustic willow art. Join him for this hands-on workshop, learn the basics of willow-working, and leave with a completed project. Students are required to bring a small hammer (8 oz. is best) and pruning shears. All other materials are supplied. Select from one of the projects listed below; sizes are estimated. Bring a sack lunch (the beverage will be provided).

Saturday, June 7, McGinley Pavilion (Cost varies with workshop selected below.)

B = Beginner   I = Intermediate   A = Advanced   P = Professional   E = Everyone!