IN THE NEWS:
The Crucial Years
July 24, 2023 - Leading climate activist Bill McKibben picked up the HEN Report in his Substack weekly newsletter.
From the Brushwood Center, a fascinating report on access to nature in Lake County Illinois...
Community leaders discuss ways to break down barriers for some to good health; ‘The social drivers for change are not fixed’
July 21, 2023 - Chicago Tribune / Lake County News-Sun
As Brushwood Center executive Catherine Game introduced the organization’s detailed study of health, equity and nature in Lake County to more than 200 people, she asked everyone to write two words to contemplate what they were about to hear...
Health equity, climate justice and the environment are deeply interconnected
July 6, 2023 - Crain’s Chicago Business
Opinion piece by Catherine Game
Picture 50,000 acres of forest preserves and open space, 550 miles of trail and bikeway connections, 40 miles of Lake Michigan beaches, more than 200 lakes and rivers, and a vibrant cultural landscape. Now, also envision toxic superfund sites, transportation and language barriers to access nature, and health, economic and life expectancy outcomes that disproportionately impact Black and Brown residents...
Brushwood Center report finds systemic inequities
June 29, 2023 - Lake County Journal
While Lake County is known for an abundance of nature, including Lake Michigan, forest preserves, parks and grassroots-created spaces, residents face significant race-based disparities and access to parks and open spaces, according to a report released by Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods...
Lovell health care center mural a symbol of hope and healing for veterans
November 11, 2020 - Daily Herald
An unexpected but welcome symbol of hope and healing for veterans stretches along a concrete block wall in the covered walkway system linking buildings at the expansive Captain James A. Lovell...
Vladimir Kulenovic Joins Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods as Director of Music and Wellness
October 29, 2020 - Daily Herald
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods welcomes Vladimir Kulenovic as Director of Music and Wellness. Kulenovic has served as Music Director of the Lake Forest Symphony...
Brushwood Center’s At Ease program combines art, nature to help veterans heal: ‘After the class you can see their inner light is shining’
October 23, 2020 - Lake County Sun
The changes are subtle, but U.S. Air Force veteran Michael Kardas has noticed. He teaches photography to veterans through the At Ease program sponsored by Brushwood Center in Riverwoods.
Lovell, Brushwood Center to host mural ribbon-cutting
October 15, 2020 - Lake County Sun
The Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center and Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods invites patients, families, community partners and the public to the 10th anniversary mural ribbon-cutting and reception.
Colorful wall mural celebrates Lovell Federal Health Care Center’s 10th anniversary
October 14, 2020 - Chicago Tribune
Since the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center opened a decade ago, nurse and painter Michelle Franklin dreamed of turning what she deemed gray, lifeless walls of the tramway into a colorful mural to brighten...
Brushwood Center To Host Discussion On Climate Change Sept. 3
August 31, 2020 - Yahoo! News
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods to host a discussion on climate change titled 'It's Raining, It's Pouring' at the Smith Nature Symposium.
Brushwood symposium welcomes future environmentalists
August 10, 2020 - Daily Herald
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods welcomes youth of the nature and community-based program Cool Learning Experience for the opening of this year's Smith Nature Symposium.
July 24, 2023 - Leading climate activist Bill McKibben picked up the HEN Report in his Substack weekly newsletter.
From the Brushwood Center, a fascinating report on access to nature in Lake County Illinois...
Community leaders discuss ways to break down barriers for some to good health; ‘The social drivers for change are not fixed’
July 21, 2023 - Chicago Tribune / Lake County News-Sun
As Brushwood Center executive Catherine Game introduced the organization’s detailed study of health, equity and nature in Lake County to more than 200 people, she asked everyone to write two words to contemplate what they were about to hear...
Health equity, climate justice and the environment are deeply interconnected
July 6, 2023 - Crain’s Chicago Business
Opinion piece by Catherine Game
Picture 50,000 acres of forest preserves and open space, 550 miles of trail and bikeway connections, 40 miles of Lake Michigan beaches, more than 200 lakes and rivers, and a vibrant cultural landscape. Now, also envision toxic superfund sites, transportation and language barriers to access nature, and health, economic and life expectancy outcomes that disproportionately impact Black and Brown residents...
Brushwood Center report finds systemic inequities
June 29, 2023 - Lake County Journal
While Lake County is known for an abundance of nature, including Lake Michigan, forest preserves, parks and grassroots-created spaces, residents face significant race-based disparities and access to parks and open spaces, according to a report released by Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods...
Lovell health care center mural a symbol of hope and healing for veterans
November 11, 2020 - Daily Herald
An unexpected but welcome symbol of hope and healing for veterans stretches along a concrete block wall in the covered walkway system linking buildings at the expansive Captain James A. Lovell...
Vladimir Kulenovic Joins Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods as Director of Music and Wellness
October 29, 2020 - Daily Herald
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods welcomes Vladimir Kulenovic as Director of Music and Wellness. Kulenovic has served as Music Director of the Lake Forest Symphony...
Brushwood Center’s At Ease program combines art, nature to help veterans heal: ‘After the class you can see their inner light is shining’
October 23, 2020 - Lake County Sun
The changes are subtle, but U.S. Air Force veteran Michael Kardas has noticed. He teaches photography to veterans through the At Ease program sponsored by Brushwood Center in Riverwoods.
Lovell, Brushwood Center to host mural ribbon-cutting
October 15, 2020 - Lake County Sun
The Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center and Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods invites patients, families, community partners and the public to the 10th anniversary mural ribbon-cutting and reception.
Colorful wall mural celebrates Lovell Federal Health Care Center’s 10th anniversary
October 14, 2020 - Chicago Tribune
Since the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center opened a decade ago, nurse and painter Michelle Franklin dreamed of turning what she deemed gray, lifeless walls of the tramway into a colorful mural to brighten...
Brushwood Center To Host Discussion On Climate Change Sept. 3
August 31, 2020 - Yahoo! News
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods to host a discussion on climate change titled 'It's Raining, It's Pouring' at the Smith Nature Symposium.
Brushwood symposium welcomes future environmentalists
August 10, 2020 - Daily Herald
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods welcomes youth of the nature and community-based program Cool Learning Experience for the opening of this year's Smith Nature Symposium.
At Ease
November 19, 2019
Fox 32: 'At Ease' program uses Mother Nature to heal the wounds of war
ABC 7 Chicago: Riverwoods program helps veterans heal through nature photography
NBC 5 Chicago: Group Offers 'At Ease' Photography Workshop to Help Veterans
Upcycling Goes Upscale
Daily North Shore - March 20, 2019
The concept of “trash to treasure” is hardly new but thanks to the launch of Brushwood Art Supply Exchange (BASE) at the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods, upcycling discarded items into works of art will be easier than ever....
Ryerson Woods holiday market looks to combine art and nature
Deerfield Review - December 3, 2018
Maggie Warren first displayed her art at the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods as a Walden Elementary School third-grader in 2003. Since then, she has combined her art with her work as an environmental scientist. She is now getting ready to participate...
Brushwood Center salutes veterans with 'Earth Rise' benefit concert Sept. 16
Daily herald - September 11, 2018
The soulful voice of Navy veteran Angela Walker will fill the summer air when she raises song to benefit local veterans on the 50th anniversary of...
Better Makers: Robert Redford and Sibylle Szaggars Redford Honored at Smith Nature Symposium & Benefit
Make It Better - August 1, 2018
On Friday, June 1, Academy Award-winning actor, director, and environmentalist Robert Redford and his wife, Sibylle Szaggars Redford, a multimedia environmental artist, were honored at Ryerson Woods’ 35th Annual Smith Nature Symposium & Benefit at the Brushwood Center...
Robert Redford headed to north suburban Riverwoods for award, performance June 1
Chicago Tribune - May 24, 2018
Robert Redford is headed June 1 to the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods in north suburban Riverwoods, where he and his wife, German-born environmental activist and multimedia artist Sibylle Szaggars Redford,...
A Subtle Beauty, The Landscape of Lake County Illinois
Minding Nature - January, 2018
It is early morning, spring, along the Des Plaines River near Wadsworth, Lake County, Illinois. Fog rises off the river as the first hints of sun reflect...
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods: A Cultural Center with an Emphasis on Nature
January 22, 2018 - Village of Riverwoods News
It is by no accident that we find ourselves waking up surrounded by nature each day. We have consciously chosen to make our homes here in Riverwoods...
A little ecosystem: 9-year-old discovers rare salamanders in window well at Ryerson Woods
Lake County Sun - September 12, 2017
A 9-year-old girl from Gages Lake, Zoe Kemerer, has been named wildlife wrangler extraordinaire for discovering rare blue-spotted salamanders at the Brushwood Center...
Community gathers to See Art of Climate Change, Hear Field Museum Speaker
Buffalo Grove Countryside - June 21, 2017
On the afternoon of June 11, Brushwood Center was teeming with a unique combination of science and art. The nonprofit's latest art exhibit, Environmental Graphiti by Alisa Singer...
Brushwood Center Garden Overflows with Supporters at Smith Nature Symposium
Chicago Tribune - June 1, 2017
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods held their 34th Annual Smith Nature Symposium on May 20, 2017. Celebrating a break in the weather, more than 200 supporters spilled outdoors...
Head of Chicago Academy of Sciences & Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum to be Recognized at Nature Symposium
Daily Herald - May 11, 2017
Every year at the Smith Nature Symposium, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods selects a local environmental leader to celebrate with the ...
Announcing Schedule for Award Winning Native Garden Days
Mundelein Review - April 27, 2017
A recipient of the Conserve Lake County "Conservation at Home" award, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods' native garden's stunning variety of indigenous flowers, grasses, and shrubs is a source of...
Photograher tracking down state's endangered species
Chicago Tribune - April 20, 2017
So, you say it's been awhile since you've gotten a good look at a purple wartyback mussel or a short-eared owl? Well, there's a good reason for that...
Community Invited to Contribute Objects, Stories that Celebrate Diversity
Chicago Tribune - April 19, 2017
Lake County Forest Preserve District, Lake County Discovery Museum, and Brushwood Center are partnering to bring a Pop-Up Museum to the Brushwood Gallery on Sunday, May 7...
Award-winning Author Florence Williams will Deliver Keynote Address at Brushwood Center's 34th Annual Smith Nature Symposium
Chicago Tribune - April 7, 2017
On Saturday, May 20th, editor, journalist, and awardwinning author, Florence Williams, will deliver the keynote address at Brushwood Center at Ryerson Wood's 34th annual Smith Nature Symposium. Intrigued by our storied renewal in the natural world...
Film & Panel Focus on Connecting Kids to Nature
Chicago Tribune - April 5, 2017
On Sunday, April 2, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods and Heller Nature Center brought the Chicago region a free screening of award-winning documentary, NaturePlay. The event was...
Getting Youth In the Outdoors: NaturePlay Documentary & Panel Discussion
Buffalo Grove Countryside - March 24, 2017
Growing bodies of research are praising the importance of nature in human growth and development-mentally, physically, socially, and academically. With this in mind, there are many individuals and organizations in the Chicago region working to...
Field Museum Lecture Series Begins at Brushwood
Buffalo Grove Countryside - March 23, 2017
A partnership with The Field Museum of Natural History's Keller Science Action Center (KSAC), Field Museum Lecture Series at Brushwood Center is an inspiring set of lectures about...
Ryerson Reads: Reading into Nature
Chicago Tribune - March 17, 2017
Since 2004, members of Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods' book and lecture club, Ryerson Reads, have poured over the pages of 52 different books in the environmental...
The Choreography of Birds Lands Gracefully at Brushwood Center
Chicago Tribune - March 17, 2017
The newest art exhibition at Brushwood Center-Peggy Macnamara's The Choreography of Birds-opened to an excited crowd on Sunday, March 5, 2017. The event brought in a large crowd...
Field Museum Lecture Series at Brushwood Center
Buffalo Grove Countryside - February 10, 2017
Skip the long drive to Chicago & head to Brushwood Center to learn about The Field Museum's latest environmental research & field work! Brushwood Center & The Field Museum's Keller Science Action Center (KSAC) are partnering to host...
The Choreography of Birds Opens at Brushwood Center
Deerfield Review - February 9, 2017
As Artist-in-Residence at The Field Museum of Natural History for over 30 years, Peggy Macnamara has had a unique opportunity to study and paint the museum's estimated 30 million specimens. Brushwood Center is thrilled to showcase a series of her...
Ryerson Reads Enters its 14th Season!
Buffalo Grove Countryside - February 2, 2017
The 2016-2017 season of Ryerson Reads wraps up on March 8th with Half Earth by Edward O. Wilson taking the stage for an indepth discussion led by Professor Benjamin Goluboff. Then the excitement of planning for Ryerson Reads' 14th season begins and a whole new set...
Local Artists Enriching Life at Brushwood Center
Buffalo Grove Countryside - January 25, 2017
On January 8th, 250 art and nature lovers flocked to Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods to see "Enriching Life at Brushwood Center," the latest art exhibit to grace the historic walls of the nonprofit. The exhibition features the work of 17 local artists...
Local Artists Exhbit at Brushwood Center
Buffalo Grove Countryside - December 22, 2016
Brushwood Center's newest art exhibit, Enriching Life at Brushwood Center, opens Sunday, January 8th, 1-3pm. Free. No registration. Exhibition runs January 8 February 27, 2017. Explore the captivating art created by the Botanical Artists of Brushwood Center in this exhibition curated by award-winning artist and instructor, Heeyoung Kim.
Brushwood Center Holiday Open House & Carol Sing
Buffalo Grove Countryside - December 2, 2016
RIVERWOODS, IL Brushwood Center is decking the halls, celebrating the season with its 2nd Annual Holiday Open House and Carol Sing on Saturday, December 10th, 4-7pm. Enjoy the holiday season the old-fashioned way with the Brushwood family as they harken back to a simpler time at historic Brushwood Center located in the Ryerson Woods Forest Preserve. This free event will include
The Spring '16 Science Art Exhibit Guide
Scientific American - May 4, 2016
Brushwood Center Announces next Speaker Series Events
Daily Herald - April 12, 2016
What do the vast mountains of Bolivia, the remote wilderness of Ecuador, and the wildlife corridors of the Chicago region have in common? The answer is Nora Bynum, director of the Science Action Center...
Brushwood Center puts a new spin on "Over the River and Through the Woods"
Deerfield Review - November 23, 2015
RIVERWOODS, IL Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods announces a new program seasoned with Christmases past. On Saturday, December 12, 4-6pm Brushwood Center is hosting a Brushwood Christmas. Enjoy Christmas the oldfashioned way...
Regeneration in nature topic of exhibition at Ryerson Woods
Daily Herald - August 11, 2015
A new group exhibition "Regeneration: The Nature of Transformation" will open with a reception from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16...
Citadel Theatre takes 'As You Like It' outdoors
Chicago Tribune - July 17, 2015
Citadel Theatre Company is taking Shakespeare on the road. You can see the company's production of "As You Like It" at four locations this summer. Artistic Director Scott Phelps said they are moving the show around "to get the word out in Lake County that Shakespeare's back.
Shakespeare Outdoors Returns to Brushwood Center
Daily Herald - July 2, 2015
Brushwood Center announces the return of Shakespeare Outdoors at 7 p.m. July 23-26 with the Bard's "As You Like It," performed by Citadel Theatre. This summertime event will be performed...
Sound Experts make art of the noise that surrounds us
Chicago Tribune - January 18, 2015
"This," said Eric Leonardson, "is a hailstorm." Outside the window, the sun was shining. But inside through the earbuds plugged into Leonardson's laptop, thunder cracked. Rain started drumming. The hail moved in, finally making...
Photography exhibit reveals lifestyle at former Ryerson home
Daily Northshore - October 27, 2014
The path to Brushwood, off of Riverwoods Road, winds its way through a chute of tall trees, with sinuous limbs that appear to reach out for each other to form a hooded canopy. Beyond sits the house...
Lake County forest preserve trails have some tales to tell
Chicago Daily Herald - September 7, 2014
A new educational program debuted Friday at the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods near Riverwoods. Presented in Spanish and English, Trail...
Brushwood Center garden restored: Volunteers keep native plants thriving for visitors, wildlife
Chicago Tribune - September 3, 2014
Leight Stewart of Buffalo Grove helped restore the Brushwood Center garden at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods. (Posted by Brushwood Center at...
Shakespeare comes to Brushwood Center: A performance in the woods with Citadel Theatre
Chicago Tribune - July 20, 2014
Shakespeare aficionados and neophytes alike can relax among the lush vegetation and sound of crickets at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods, Ill. on ...
'Midsummer Night's Dream' to play outdoors at Ryerson Woods
Lincolnshire Review - July 22; Mundelein Review - July 27, 2014
Citadel Theatre Company will bring a touch of wonder to Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods, Aug. 1-3, with its production of “A Midsummer Night's ...
Brushwood Center hosts 'Avian Spirits' exhibition
Barrington Courier-Review - July 9, 2014
Birds have inspired artists throughout time. That relationship is celebrated in “Avian Spirits” at Brushwood Center at Ryerson ...
Art exhibition linking passenger pigeon, Jewish heritage comes to Ryerson Woods May 4
Trib Local, Libertyville - April 14, 2014 & Deerfield Review - April 15, 2014
LAKE COUNTY, IL - Artists and friends Steffi Domike and Ann T. Rosenthal often focus on environmental issues in their work, sometimes weaving bird imagery into their pieces...
Meet world-class bird guide author David Sibley
Glencoe News - April 4, 2014
Glenview resident and birder Dick Paulson was stymied trying to identify a duck he recently saw while vacationing in Oregon. No problem. He just pulled out “The Sibley Guide to Birds” and discovered he was looking at a non-breeding male cinnamon teal. The guide, written and illustrated by David Sibley, “is the best out there,” said Paulson...
See Libraries popping up in the suburbs
Daily Herald - March 22, 2014
This summer, hikers at two Lake County forest preserves will find something new and unusual at the end of special trails -- outdoor libraries. The decorative boxes full of books will be the suburbs' latest Little Free Libraries, as part of an effort that began about five years ago and has expanded across the nation and...
Renowned birder, artist and author is returning to Ryerson Woods
Daily Herald - March 18, 2014
On the heels of the release of his highly anticipated second edition of “The Sibley Guide to Birds,” David Sibley will speak and sign books ...
Forest Preserve's “Trail Tales” to mix literacy with nature
Lake County News Sun - January 19, 2014
Lake County Forest Preserve officials hope that turning beloved children’s stories into trail hikes this summer may boost literacy, offer families a new outdoor learning experience and, hopefully...
Behind-the-Scenes Tour at Ryerson Woods
Gazebo News - October 3, 2013
Take advantage of the fall weather and join the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Historical Society for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Ryerson Woods with Sophie Twichell, Executive Director...
See the forest for trees — and the art shows
Chicago Tribune - January 14, 2013
After a hike at Ryerson Woods near Deerfield they stopped for a drink of water at Brushwood, the headquarters and arts center hub of Friends of Ryerson...
Friends of Ryerson Woods program: How did prairies influence Frank Lloyd Wright?
Examiner.com -July 16, 2012
We in the Chicago Region owe much to prairies, including rich soils that became the foundation of Illinois agriculture. Midwestern prairie expanses also shaped architecture— specifically the uniquely American Prairie School of architecture. On Thursday July 19,...
Volunteer helps make Ryerson accessible with bilingual tour
Deerfield Review - July 16, 2012
Bannockburn resident Valerie Lewis has been a volunteer for Friends of Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods for one year, but she had close ties to the nature preserve long before she began...
November 19, 2019
Fox 32: 'At Ease' program uses Mother Nature to heal the wounds of war
ABC 7 Chicago: Riverwoods program helps veterans heal through nature photography
NBC 5 Chicago: Group Offers 'At Ease' Photography Workshop to Help Veterans
Upcycling Goes Upscale
Daily North Shore - March 20, 2019
The concept of “trash to treasure” is hardly new but thanks to the launch of Brushwood Art Supply Exchange (BASE) at the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods, upcycling discarded items into works of art will be easier than ever....
Ryerson Woods holiday market looks to combine art and nature
Deerfield Review - December 3, 2018
Maggie Warren first displayed her art at the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods as a Walden Elementary School third-grader in 2003. Since then, she has combined her art with her work as an environmental scientist. She is now getting ready to participate...
Brushwood Center salutes veterans with 'Earth Rise' benefit concert Sept. 16
Daily herald - September 11, 2018
The soulful voice of Navy veteran Angela Walker will fill the summer air when she raises song to benefit local veterans on the 50th anniversary of...
Better Makers: Robert Redford and Sibylle Szaggars Redford Honored at Smith Nature Symposium & Benefit
Make It Better - August 1, 2018
On Friday, June 1, Academy Award-winning actor, director, and environmentalist Robert Redford and his wife, Sibylle Szaggars Redford, a multimedia environmental artist, were honored at Ryerson Woods’ 35th Annual Smith Nature Symposium & Benefit at the Brushwood Center...
Robert Redford headed to north suburban Riverwoods for award, performance June 1
Chicago Tribune - May 24, 2018
Robert Redford is headed June 1 to the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods in north suburban Riverwoods, where he and his wife, German-born environmental activist and multimedia artist Sibylle Szaggars Redford,...
A Subtle Beauty, The Landscape of Lake County Illinois
Minding Nature - January, 2018
It is early morning, spring, along the Des Plaines River near Wadsworth, Lake County, Illinois. Fog rises off the river as the first hints of sun reflect...
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods: A Cultural Center with an Emphasis on Nature
January 22, 2018 - Village of Riverwoods News
It is by no accident that we find ourselves waking up surrounded by nature each day. We have consciously chosen to make our homes here in Riverwoods...
A little ecosystem: 9-year-old discovers rare salamanders in window well at Ryerson Woods
Lake County Sun - September 12, 2017
A 9-year-old girl from Gages Lake, Zoe Kemerer, has been named wildlife wrangler extraordinaire for discovering rare blue-spotted salamanders at the Brushwood Center...
Community gathers to See Art of Climate Change, Hear Field Museum Speaker
Buffalo Grove Countryside - June 21, 2017
On the afternoon of June 11, Brushwood Center was teeming with a unique combination of science and art. The nonprofit's latest art exhibit, Environmental Graphiti by Alisa Singer...
Brushwood Center Garden Overflows with Supporters at Smith Nature Symposium
Chicago Tribune - June 1, 2017
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods held their 34th Annual Smith Nature Symposium on May 20, 2017. Celebrating a break in the weather, more than 200 supporters spilled outdoors...
Head of Chicago Academy of Sciences & Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum to be Recognized at Nature Symposium
Daily Herald - May 11, 2017
Every year at the Smith Nature Symposium, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods selects a local environmental leader to celebrate with the ...
Announcing Schedule for Award Winning Native Garden Days
Mundelein Review - April 27, 2017
A recipient of the Conserve Lake County "Conservation at Home" award, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods' native garden's stunning variety of indigenous flowers, grasses, and shrubs is a source of...
Photograher tracking down state's endangered species
Chicago Tribune - April 20, 2017
So, you say it's been awhile since you've gotten a good look at a purple wartyback mussel or a short-eared owl? Well, there's a good reason for that...
Community Invited to Contribute Objects, Stories that Celebrate Diversity
Chicago Tribune - April 19, 2017
Lake County Forest Preserve District, Lake County Discovery Museum, and Brushwood Center are partnering to bring a Pop-Up Museum to the Brushwood Gallery on Sunday, May 7...
Award-winning Author Florence Williams will Deliver Keynote Address at Brushwood Center's 34th Annual Smith Nature Symposium
Chicago Tribune - April 7, 2017
On Saturday, May 20th, editor, journalist, and awardwinning author, Florence Williams, will deliver the keynote address at Brushwood Center at Ryerson Wood's 34th annual Smith Nature Symposium. Intrigued by our storied renewal in the natural world...
Film & Panel Focus on Connecting Kids to Nature
Chicago Tribune - April 5, 2017
On Sunday, April 2, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods and Heller Nature Center brought the Chicago region a free screening of award-winning documentary, NaturePlay. The event was...
Getting Youth In the Outdoors: NaturePlay Documentary & Panel Discussion
Buffalo Grove Countryside - March 24, 2017
Growing bodies of research are praising the importance of nature in human growth and development-mentally, physically, socially, and academically. With this in mind, there are many individuals and organizations in the Chicago region working to...
Field Museum Lecture Series Begins at Brushwood
Buffalo Grove Countryside - March 23, 2017
A partnership with The Field Museum of Natural History's Keller Science Action Center (KSAC), Field Museum Lecture Series at Brushwood Center is an inspiring set of lectures about...
Ryerson Reads: Reading into Nature
Chicago Tribune - March 17, 2017
Since 2004, members of Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods' book and lecture club, Ryerson Reads, have poured over the pages of 52 different books in the environmental...
The Choreography of Birds Lands Gracefully at Brushwood Center
Chicago Tribune - March 17, 2017
The newest art exhibition at Brushwood Center-Peggy Macnamara's The Choreography of Birds-opened to an excited crowd on Sunday, March 5, 2017. The event brought in a large crowd...
Field Museum Lecture Series at Brushwood Center
Buffalo Grove Countryside - February 10, 2017
Skip the long drive to Chicago & head to Brushwood Center to learn about The Field Museum's latest environmental research & field work! Brushwood Center & The Field Museum's Keller Science Action Center (KSAC) are partnering to host...
The Choreography of Birds Opens at Brushwood Center
Deerfield Review - February 9, 2017
As Artist-in-Residence at The Field Museum of Natural History for over 30 years, Peggy Macnamara has had a unique opportunity to study and paint the museum's estimated 30 million specimens. Brushwood Center is thrilled to showcase a series of her...
Ryerson Reads Enters its 14th Season!
Buffalo Grove Countryside - February 2, 2017
The 2016-2017 season of Ryerson Reads wraps up on March 8th with Half Earth by Edward O. Wilson taking the stage for an indepth discussion led by Professor Benjamin Goluboff. Then the excitement of planning for Ryerson Reads' 14th season begins and a whole new set...
Local Artists Enriching Life at Brushwood Center
Buffalo Grove Countryside - January 25, 2017
On January 8th, 250 art and nature lovers flocked to Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods to see "Enriching Life at Brushwood Center," the latest art exhibit to grace the historic walls of the nonprofit. The exhibition features the work of 17 local artists...
Local Artists Exhbit at Brushwood Center
Buffalo Grove Countryside - December 22, 2016
Brushwood Center's newest art exhibit, Enriching Life at Brushwood Center, opens Sunday, January 8th, 1-3pm. Free. No registration. Exhibition runs January 8 February 27, 2017. Explore the captivating art created by the Botanical Artists of Brushwood Center in this exhibition curated by award-winning artist and instructor, Heeyoung Kim.
Brushwood Center Holiday Open House & Carol Sing
Buffalo Grove Countryside - December 2, 2016
RIVERWOODS, IL Brushwood Center is decking the halls, celebrating the season with its 2nd Annual Holiday Open House and Carol Sing on Saturday, December 10th, 4-7pm. Enjoy the holiday season the old-fashioned way with the Brushwood family as they harken back to a simpler time at historic Brushwood Center located in the Ryerson Woods Forest Preserve. This free event will include
The Spring '16 Science Art Exhibit Guide
Scientific American - May 4, 2016
Brushwood Center Announces next Speaker Series Events
Daily Herald - April 12, 2016
What do the vast mountains of Bolivia, the remote wilderness of Ecuador, and the wildlife corridors of the Chicago region have in common? The answer is Nora Bynum, director of the Science Action Center...
Brushwood Center puts a new spin on "Over the River and Through the Woods"
Deerfield Review - November 23, 2015
RIVERWOODS, IL Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods announces a new program seasoned with Christmases past. On Saturday, December 12, 4-6pm Brushwood Center is hosting a Brushwood Christmas. Enjoy Christmas the oldfashioned way...
Regeneration in nature topic of exhibition at Ryerson Woods
Daily Herald - August 11, 2015
A new group exhibition "Regeneration: The Nature of Transformation" will open with a reception from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16...
Citadel Theatre takes 'As You Like It' outdoors
Chicago Tribune - July 17, 2015
Citadel Theatre Company is taking Shakespeare on the road. You can see the company's production of "As You Like It" at four locations this summer. Artistic Director Scott Phelps said they are moving the show around "to get the word out in Lake County that Shakespeare's back.
Shakespeare Outdoors Returns to Brushwood Center
Daily Herald - July 2, 2015
Brushwood Center announces the return of Shakespeare Outdoors at 7 p.m. July 23-26 with the Bard's "As You Like It," performed by Citadel Theatre. This summertime event will be performed...
Sound Experts make art of the noise that surrounds us
Chicago Tribune - January 18, 2015
"This," said Eric Leonardson, "is a hailstorm." Outside the window, the sun was shining. But inside through the earbuds plugged into Leonardson's laptop, thunder cracked. Rain started drumming. The hail moved in, finally making...
Photography exhibit reveals lifestyle at former Ryerson home
Daily Northshore - October 27, 2014
The path to Brushwood, off of Riverwoods Road, winds its way through a chute of tall trees, with sinuous limbs that appear to reach out for each other to form a hooded canopy. Beyond sits the house...
Lake County forest preserve trails have some tales to tell
Chicago Daily Herald - September 7, 2014
A new educational program debuted Friday at the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods near Riverwoods. Presented in Spanish and English, Trail...
Brushwood Center garden restored: Volunteers keep native plants thriving for visitors, wildlife
Chicago Tribune - September 3, 2014
Leight Stewart of Buffalo Grove helped restore the Brushwood Center garden at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods. (Posted by Brushwood Center at...
Shakespeare comes to Brushwood Center: A performance in the woods with Citadel Theatre
Chicago Tribune - July 20, 2014
Shakespeare aficionados and neophytes alike can relax among the lush vegetation and sound of crickets at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods, Ill. on ...
'Midsummer Night's Dream' to play outdoors at Ryerson Woods
Lincolnshire Review - July 22; Mundelein Review - July 27, 2014
Citadel Theatre Company will bring a touch of wonder to Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods, Aug. 1-3, with its production of “A Midsummer Night's ...
Brushwood Center hosts 'Avian Spirits' exhibition
Barrington Courier-Review - July 9, 2014
Birds have inspired artists throughout time. That relationship is celebrated in “Avian Spirits” at Brushwood Center at Ryerson ...
Art exhibition linking passenger pigeon, Jewish heritage comes to Ryerson Woods May 4
Trib Local, Libertyville - April 14, 2014 & Deerfield Review - April 15, 2014
LAKE COUNTY, IL - Artists and friends Steffi Domike and Ann T. Rosenthal often focus on environmental issues in their work, sometimes weaving bird imagery into their pieces...
Meet world-class bird guide author David Sibley
Glencoe News - April 4, 2014
Glenview resident and birder Dick Paulson was stymied trying to identify a duck he recently saw while vacationing in Oregon. No problem. He just pulled out “The Sibley Guide to Birds” and discovered he was looking at a non-breeding male cinnamon teal. The guide, written and illustrated by David Sibley, “is the best out there,” said Paulson...
See Libraries popping up in the suburbs
Daily Herald - March 22, 2014
This summer, hikers at two Lake County forest preserves will find something new and unusual at the end of special trails -- outdoor libraries. The decorative boxes full of books will be the suburbs' latest Little Free Libraries, as part of an effort that began about five years ago and has expanded across the nation and...
Renowned birder, artist and author is returning to Ryerson Woods
Daily Herald - March 18, 2014
On the heels of the release of his highly anticipated second edition of “The Sibley Guide to Birds,” David Sibley will speak and sign books ...
Forest Preserve's “Trail Tales” to mix literacy with nature
Lake County News Sun - January 19, 2014
Lake County Forest Preserve officials hope that turning beloved children’s stories into trail hikes this summer may boost literacy, offer families a new outdoor learning experience and, hopefully...
Behind-the-Scenes Tour at Ryerson Woods
Gazebo News - October 3, 2013
Take advantage of the fall weather and join the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Historical Society for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Ryerson Woods with Sophie Twichell, Executive Director...
See the forest for trees — and the art shows
Chicago Tribune - January 14, 2013
After a hike at Ryerson Woods near Deerfield they stopped for a drink of water at Brushwood, the headquarters and arts center hub of Friends of Ryerson...
Friends of Ryerson Woods program: How did prairies influence Frank Lloyd Wright?
Examiner.com -July 16, 2012
We in the Chicago Region owe much to prairies, including rich soils that became the foundation of Illinois agriculture. Midwestern prairie expanses also shaped architecture— specifically the uniquely American Prairie School of architecture. On Thursday July 19,...
Volunteer helps make Ryerson accessible with bilingual tour
Deerfield Review - July 16, 2012
Bannockburn resident Valerie Lewis has been a volunteer for Friends of Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods for one year, but she had close ties to the nature preserve long before she began...
