[Communications] September Highlights: George Washington Carver Exhibit, Good Things Vending, FLEUROTICA & More!

[Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance]

September 2024 Newsletter You are receiving this because you subscribe to our e-newsletter. September 2024 Connecting People To Nature On Chicago's West Side EXHIBITS The Creative Mind of George Washington Carver Exhibit in the Artist's Garden open through September 22 Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance Staff pictured at Community Night in the Artist's Garden 08/28/24  Exhibit Spotlight: The Creative Mind of George Washington Carver Artist’s Garden Show   Experience the vibrant fusion of art and nature in our latest exhibit, The Creative Mind of George Washington Carver Artist’s Garden Show, open through September 22, 2024. Known for his revolutionary work with peanuts, George Washington Carver was also a passionate artist whose creativity was deeply inspired by the natural world. This exhibit celebrates Carver’s dual legacy by showcasing his botanical illustrations alongside a stunning floral landscape that reflects his artistic vision. Visitors to the Artist’s Garden will be enchanted by Carver’s inspiration drawn from nature and how it shaped his groundbreaking scientific contributions. Explore interpretive panels that reveal Carver’s fascination with the botanical world and its influence on his work. We recently held a memorable Community Night in the Artist’s Garden, where guests delved into Carver’s creative genius through interactive activities. Attendees enjoyed a coloring session, light refreshments, and engaged in nature trivia, all while soaking in the beauty of Carver’s inspired floral displays. Join us for upcoming programming in the Artist's Garden highlighting George Washington Carver's paint pigment process; see below for more details.  Learn more and visit us before September 22nd! BOOK YOUR VISIT Additional Neighbor & Member Reservations Available Do reservations look full? If you live in our community of Garfield Park or are a GPCA member, there are additional reservation times set aside for you. Neighbors call 773-638-1766 or email visitors at garfieldpark.org. Become a member or current members can contact membership at garfieldpark.org or call 773-638-1766 x 13. Updates & Announcements   New Good Things Vending Machine & Mural Wall at GPC! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our exciting Good Things Vending project! On August 12, we unveiled our new Good Things Vending Machine, located in the hallway of the Desert House exit leading into the City Garden. Good Things Vending, an innovative initiative based in Chicago, brings a delightful mix of locally made art, nostalgic items, and practical treasures straight from a vending machine. We’re proud to host their seventh machine right here at GPC. Chi Nwosu (@itschinwosu) crafted our vibrant design for machine #7 and will be accompanying a wall mural that is a work in progress. Chi Nwosu, a Black, nonbinary, queer Nigerian artist based in Chicago, weaves together elemental, political, and spiritual symbols to explore marginalized experiences, inviting viewers to imagine a world of love and interconnectedness. We’re also on the lookout for new Chicago artists and makers interested in showcasing their work in our Good Things Vending Machine. If you’re an artist eager to share your creations with our diverse community, apply today and become a part of this unique project! LEARN MORE  GET READY FOR FLEUROTICA on Thursday, October 17! GPCA MEMBER PRESALE: Tuesday, September 10 at 10am  PUBLIC SALE: Thursday, September 12 at 10am      The countdown is on for one of our most dazzling events of the year—FLEUROTICA! Mark your calendars for September 12th at 10am, when tickets go on sale for this annual floral fashion extravaganza. Every year, FLEUROTICA transforms the Garfield Park Conservatory into a runway of breathtaking garments crafted entirely from plants, flowers, and natural materials.   This signature fundraiser showcases the creativity of Chicago’s top floral designers, fashion designers, students, and landscape artists. But hurry—tickets for this spectacular event sell out fast! Don’t miss your chance to witness this fusion of nature and fashion while supporting our mission to enhance lives through the power of nature.   Secure your spot at FLEUROTICA and help us continue to provide vital nature education programs and community resources.   Thank you to our participating designers! A. Hunt Design  Amy Crum Designs Alexandra Antoine Brittney Kee Floral Design Dominique Struck Earth’s Remedies – Mercedes Pickett Hearthstone Terrace Honey Street Flowers Planks and Pistils Pinky Swear Studio Scottie by Design Vitruvian Fine Art Studio PROJECT 1952 The Florist & The Flower Hailey Rodden   Thank You To Our FLEUROTICA 2024 Sponsors   Interested in sponsorship? Learn more about opportunities. For questions or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, contact Marie Stringer, Director of Development & Communications, at mstringer at garfieldpark.org or 773-638-1766 x 22. LEARN MORE   EVENTS & PROGRAMS Autogenerated Closed Captioning is Available at GPCA Virtual Programs Demo: Using Amanda Williams's 'Carver Innovation Blue' Pigment Wednesday, September 11, 6pm -7pm  Free Join us on Wednesday, September 11th from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Artist’s Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory for an engaging demonstration on using Prussian Blue pigment! Sarah Hanson will showcase how this historic pigment can be added to various paint binders for home projects. Arrive on time to see all the paint mediums demonstrated or drop in at any point during the hour. This walk-in program is free with reservation—no registration needed. In case of inclement weather, the demo will move indoors to Horticulture Hall. For accommodations, email Bendi at bqian at garfieldpark.org. Book a Reservation Amanda Williams on 'Carver Innovation Blue' Lecture Monday, September 16, 6pm - 7pm Free Join us on Monday, September 16th from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm for an insightful lecture by artist Amanda Williams at Garfield Park Conservatory's Horticulture Hall. As part of our Creative Mind of George Washington Carver exhibit, Amanda will delve into her exploration of George Washington Carver’s 1920s patent for Prussian Blue pigment and its relevance to modern innovation. Amanda's work with Carver’s pigment highlights the power of color and Black imagination in overcoming adversity. Her collaboration with research scientists and chemistry students has led to the development of a unique pigment for upcoming site-specific projects, including the New Orleans Prospect.6 Triennial in November 2024. This after-hours program is free with registration, which closes on September 15th at 5:00 pm CST. Register now to secure your spot! For accommodation requests, please contact access at garfieldpark.org at least 72 hours before the event. Register REGISTER FOR SEPTEMBER CONCERT Music Under Glass | Summer Concert Series Finale Wednesday, September 18, 6pm-7pm Free with registration. Don’t miss the grand finale of our Music Under Glass Summer Concert Series on Wednesday, September 18! We’re thrilled to feature the incredible Larry Taylor and the Soul Blues Healers for an evening of soulful melodies and electrifying performances, spotlighting talented artists from the West Side. Get ready to enjoy a night of exceptional music in the stunning setting of the Garfield Park Conservatory. The Music Under Glass 2024 series is made possible in part by John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Illinois Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and CIBC. Virtual Yoga with Natalie Saturday, September 14; 9am -10am Free; Donations Accepted In- Person Yoga with DuShaun Wednesday, September 25; 6pm -7pm $5 per person Virtual Yoga with DuShaun Saturday, September 28; 9am -10am Free; Donations Accepted Register For Virtual Yoga w/ Natalie Register For In-Person Yoga w/ DuShaun Register For Virtual Yoga w/ DuShaun  Bee Demos (Recurring event) Thursday & Sunday, (excluding holidays) 11:00am - 11:30am, 1:00pm - 1:30pm Free Curious about bees and beekeeping? Join us this summer for interactive demonstrations led by our dedicated beekeeping volunteers and Head Beekeeper. Get an up-close look at active beehives and learn about their fascinating role in our ecosystem. Demonstrations cater to all ages and interest levels.  Find us on the southern end of campus. In case of inclement weather, we'll move indoors to our educational demo hives. Click here for a campus map  LEARN MORE Hilos Tintos | Red Threads: Natural Cochineal Dye Workshop with Miguel Limon Sunday, September 29, 10am - 12pm $55.00 General $44.00 Community/Member/ Volunteers In Community Room  Free for all visitors Celebrate Latin American/Hispanic Heritage Month with us on Sunday, September 29th from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at our Hilos Tintos | Red Threads workshop! Join visual artist Miguel Limon in the Community Room for a hands-on experience exploring the vibrant art of natural cochineal dyeing. Discover the ancient Mesoamerican tradition of using cochineal insects to create stunning red dyes. Miguel will guide you through extracting pigments and applying them to fabrics, while you also get a chance to explore our cacti collection in the Desert House. The workshop is $55 for the general public and $44 for community, members, and volunteers. All materials are sustainably sourced and included. Scholarships are available—apply by September 23rd at 9:00 am. Register   Origami Open House 2nd Saturdays Saturday, September 14, 12pm - 3pm Free On the 2nd Saturday of the month, Chicago Area Origami Society presents a free drop-in Origami Open House to our visitors. Adults and kids accompanied by an adult are welcome. Free and open to the public. Registration is not required. If you’d like to visit the Conservatory before or after joining this program, please book a reservation. Learn More Ask a Master Gardener September 14, & September 28, 10:30am-1pm  Free Alternating Saturdays, there's a University of Illinois Extension Ask a Master Gardener table in Horticulture Hall to answer your plant questions. Make a free reservation to GPC to visit them. Ask A Master Gardener Celebrating Latin American & Hispanic Heritage Month Cajon Workshop Sunday, September 15, 11am -12pm In Horticulture Hall Free for all visitors Join us at Garfield Park Conservatory on September 15 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm for a vibrant Afro-Peruvian Percussion Workshop hosted by the Center for Peruvian Arts! Dive into the rich rhythms of Afro-Peruvian music and let the beats of the Cajón awaken your inner musician. This fun and interactive session is perfect for all ages 3 and up. Best of all, the event is free with your Conservatory reservation. Be sure to book ahead here to secure your spot. For more on the Center for Peruvian Arts and their inspiring mission, click here. We can’t wait to see you there! Book Your Reservation    REGISTER  Hands-On Beekeeping Class with Marcin and Urban Roots Teens Sunday, October 13, 2:15pm - 3:45pm $30 General Admission $24 Members/ Volunteers Join us on Sunday, October 13th from 2:15pm to 3:45pm for a hands-on beekeeping class at the Conservatory Hives! Led by Head Beekeeper Marcin and our Urban Roots Teens, this class is ideal for beginners and those eager to expand their beekeeping skills. Dive into seasonal topics like swarm management and honey harvesting. Please note, you’ll be working with active beehives, so expect the possibility of insect stings. Space is limited and registration is required—sign up now to secure your spot! Join Our Team: We are hiring a Nature Education Teacher!  Are you passionate about nature and education? The Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance is looking for a part-time Nature Education Teacher (NET) to inspire young minds and facilitate engaging family programs. Position: Nature Education Teacher (NET) If you're excited to bring your enthusiasm and skills to our vibrant team, apply by sending your cover letter and resume to Jam Doughty at jdoughty at garfieldpark.org by September 11, 2024. Don't miss this chance to make a difference at one of Chicago’s most beloved institutions! LEARN MORE NATURE EDUCATION PROGRAMS Inspiring Children & Caretakers with The Power of Nature Urban Roots Teens Urban Roots Fall Programming Begins September 17th! We're excited to kick off the fall session of our Urban Roots Teen Environmental Justice Program on September 17th! This dynamic program offers high school students from the Westside a unique opportunity to connect with nature while developing essential skills for personal and professional growth. Our Fall 2024 cohort will continue their journey with exciting projects like microgreen information stations and community herbal products. Join us in supporting these young environmental leaders as they make a meaningful impact! For more information or to support the Urban Roots program, email us at urbanroots at garfieldpark.org. To contribute directly, consider becoming a member or making a designated gift to uplift this inspiring initiative. LEARN MORE ABOUT URBAN ROOTS Principal funding for Urban Roots has been provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) [MA20-16-0031-16]. Additional funding provided in part by: After School Matters, Bank of America Foundation, Anonymous Fund of Central Indiana Community Foundation, IMC Chicago Charitable Foundation, JPMorgan Chase & Co., PNC Foundation. Morning Glories Every Friday from 10am - 12pm   Calling all little nature lovers! Join us for Morning Glories, a delightful family program designed for children ages 0-3 and their caregivers. Every Friday from 10am to 12pm, embark on a journey of discovery as we explore the wonders of nature together. From sensory activities to hands-on exploration, each session promises engaging experiences that nurture curiosity and imagination. Best of all, Morning Glories is free to attend with a reservation. Simply drop in and join the fun! Budding Botanists Every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30am - 2:30pm   Get ready for an adventure at Garfield Park Conservatory as you encounter our Budding Botanists!   Join us on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30am to 2:30pm for our Budding Botanists station, where our Nature Educators will engage kids of all ages in exciting activities. From hands-on experiments to fascinating discoveries, each session promises a fun-filled learning experience. Wild Wednesdays Every Wednesday from 4pm - 7:30pm Join Family Programs staff outdoors in Play and Grow Garden for free, drop-in activities, such as fort building, bug hunts, chalk drawing, and more!   Find us every Wednesday evening from 4pm-7:30 pm. Just head outside through our Desert House doors and follow the giant bubbles! Make A Free Reservation Family Programs are made possible in part by Peoples Gas Community Fund and PNC Full Calendar Of Events OPEN WEDNESDAY FROM 10AM - 8PM ; THURSDAY- SUNDAY FROM 10AM - 5PM VISIT US | PHONE: 773.638.1766 Become A Member and shine with us! Support the plants and programs you love at the Garfield Park Conservatory and enjoy an exclusive offer! Join now and receive a free GPCA apron—perfect for your kitchen, barbeques, or tending to your garden! This special gift is available for a limited time and while supplies last, so don't miss out. As a member, you’ll help us nurture the Urban Roots Teen Environmental Justice Program, expand our educational and engagement programs, and keep the Conservatory accessible to all. Plus, enjoy fantastic perks like reciprocal garden access at over 345 participating locations, discounts on classes and in the Gift Shop, and exclusive event invitations. Become a member today and help the Garfield Park Conservatory & Gardens shine as a sparkling jewel on the West Side. Sign up now and get your apron at the GPC Gift Shop! Join / Renew Today Momentum Coffee At GPC Wednesday-Sunday: 10am-3pm In Horticulture Hall Discover the vibrant flavors of Momentum Coffee! Known for their exceptional blends, Momentum Coffee Chicago now offers their Mo' Refreshing Watermelon Peach and Blue Raspberry Refreshers at our Horticulture Hall. Perfectly refreshing and delicious, these drinks are a great complement to your Conservatory visit. Don’t miss out—stop by and savor the taste of Momentum Coffee today! Make A Free Reservation COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS West Side Cultural Arts Council 2nd Annual Lagoon Fest September 21, 10am - 4:00pm Dive into creativity and nature at the 2nd Annual Lagoon Fest, hosted by the Westside Cultural Arts Council (WCAC) and Garfield Park Conservatory! On September 21st, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, the Garfield Park Gold Dome will transform into a vibrant celebration of our natural resources and cultural heritage. Explore the Cultural Village Market, where art, nature, and community come together in a festival of peace, love, and creativity. Discover local artists, enjoy live performances, and engage in hands-on activities celebrating the beauty of our environment. For more details, email WCAC at wscac1988 at gmail.com. Don’t miss this chance to connect with nature and the community in a colorful, inspiring setting!  LET'S BE FRIENDS           Follow @garfieldparkconservatory On Tik Tok! The Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance changes lives through the power of nature. We are a non-profit organization that works in partnership with the Chicago Park District. The Garfield Park Conservatory is owned and managed by the Chicago Park District and has showcased "landscape art under glass" for over 100 years on the West Side of Chicago.  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