Chicago Botanic Garden Classes, Chicago

Watercolor is a delightfully fun medium. In this class, you’ll learn a variety of watercolor techniques, including washes and how to make a range of textures on paper, plus some color theory to get you started.  No prior experience is necessary.

Discover the joy and beauty of mosaic art in the pique assiette tradition. Pique assiette, or “broken plates,” incorporates a wonderful blending of color, form, and texture. This mosaic folk art can be found in many cultures and is popular today as a way to recycle a favorite piece of china or broken heirloom. Work under the guidance of Bonnie...

Build your skills in Lightroom and make images that realize your vision. Learn to fine-tune the look of your images with global and local adjustments. Then learn to print your own images on premium photographic and fine art papers. Use the capabilities of Lightroom to produce your own photobook to showcase your images. A personal laptop with Lightroom...

Succulent container gardens are very hot and trendy in the gardening world. Learn cultural guidelines and examples of designs to create a succulent container from start to finish.  These containers will give you enjoyment from spring through fall, and can be moved indoors in winter and held for another year of enjoyment the following season....

New! More than 76 percent of Americans indicate they experience mild to severe stress. Apply techniques used to release tension as you practice mindful breathing and enjoy a guided relaxation session. Class includes diffusing essential oils and tips for use at home.  Please bring a yoga mat or towel. Chairs are available if you prefer to...

Express the beauty of nature in watercolor. Each week focuses on a specific technique, such as ways to mix greens or show natural textures, with a goal of a more satisfying painting experience.  In the last two weeks, you will focus on landscape techniques such as composition, color, and focus to create the impression of a beautiful natural place....

For students who have completed Beginning Watercolor, we will continue to learn various techniques and color theory while exploring different ways to combine light, composition, color, and textures in watercolor painting. A supply list will be sent.

Elevate your garden designs by incorporating hardscape elements. These structural components of a landscape provide both functional and aesthetic benefits. Create garden design plans that integrate hardscape structures such as paving, landscape lighting, and garden walls to achieve your landscape design goals.  Prerequisites:  Graphics, ...

Walking meditation is an ancient, contemplative practice designed to encourage profound spiritual connections. Relax and renew as you slowly walk around the Great Basin, making four stops for guided meditation to focus on birth, growth, loss, and new life.  Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Dress for the weather.

Did you receive a camera as a gift recently? Is your camera still sitting in the box? This workshop will help you set up your camera and cover its basic operations. With hands-on instruction, you’ll learn the basics of camera operation. To get the most out of the class, you should own a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera, mirrorless camera,...

Advance your skills by acquiring the techniques and methods for successfully drawing white flowers on white paper.  Learn how to see subtle colors reflected on white objects and express them through a range of warm and cool colors. You will also gain the skills necessary to tackle the rich shadow colors.  Prerequisite: Colored Pencil Workshop,...

Open to all levels, this class will immerse you in the painting process from day one. Students will learn how to select, compose, and paint based on strong design, values, and colors. This wonderful medium allows for extended manipulation and nuances of interpretation. Required Supplies: Paints, 37 ml tubes • Alizarin crimson • Cadmium red light...

This studio class is open to all levels. Students may bring a project of their choice, any medium, or work with plant subjects to create a new art piece. The course will feature lecture and demonstration to illustrate principles that pertain to all media. The School’s CEUs=12 hours

Category: Horticulture Learn the horticulture of bonsai and the art and philosophy behind it. Discover what bonsai is and the history, fundamental aesthetic elements, and basic styles of this art. Class will also touch on tools, wiring, soils, fertilizers, and year-round care. A walk to view part of the Garden‘s Bonsai Collection is included.

Layered with vegetables and butter, breads are the star of an Indian meal.  In this cooking class, make stuffed north Indian flat breads, known as paratha, such as aloo (potato), gobi (cauliflower), paneer (cottage cheese), palak (spinach), and lachha (layered) paratha.  Learn dough preparation and pairing options. Students will make fresh...