

June 7 – September 21
From polka dots to stripes—nature’s got style
This summer, celebrate our universal attraction to patterns through playfully planted gardens and nature-inspired art that’ll stretch your imagination. Discover installations and garden beds featuring dynamic patterns, transformational art, and upcycled fashion.
Special Event Highlight
Garden Game Nights and Puzzle Hunt
June 26, July 17 & 31, August 14 & 28, from 6 to 8 p.m.
- Life-sized lawn games on the Esplanade for all ages
- Pop-up bars stocked with refreshing cocktails and mocktails
- A special puzzle hunt game designed by The Mystery League
Nature,
repeating herself
Our gardens steal the spotlight in this summer’s exhibition, where flowers and foliage transform each space into eye-catching patterns—think paisley created from succulents, agave, and spirals, or tartan created from different hues of daisies.












Pattern play through artists’ eyes
Discover how carefully curated patterns connect art, design, and horticulture. Art installations include:
Future by Raquel Rodrigo, who is also known as Arquicostura, imagines a future in harmony with the natural world—bringing embroidery to large-scale public art featuring the native Echinacea flower.
Noticing, by Kristin Field, invites us to pause and discover nature’s subtle wonders through naturally dyed textiles, created using time-intensive practices like growing dye plants and weaving on a floor loom.
Ebb and Flow and Radiate, by Rachel B. Hayes, uses vibrant fabrics that respond to the changing light and winds of the day, creating an environment to explore and meander.
A Better Pattern, a collaboration with Columbia College Chicago’s School of Fashion, celebrates emerging designers who incorporated Garden-sourced materials and textiles into couture-inspired fashion creations.
Special Events & Classes
Find summer fun! Check out our lineup of special Patterned by Nature events and classes below.
Featured Highlights
Beats in the Garden
with Planet Chambo and Solidarity Studios
July 5, August 2 & September 6, from noon to 4 p.m.
Make hip-hop beats inspired by nature at an outdoor mobile music studio.
Poems While You Wait
July 19 & August 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Get a personalized poem inspired by patterns, typed on a manual typewriter.
Upcoming Schedule

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