A Brush With Nature
Presented in partnership with the Driehaus Museum
- Time of Year
- June 20, 2025 – September 29, 2025
- Location
- Level 2
The work of Scottish botanical artist Rory McEwen (1932-1982) reflects a sustained intensity of focus on the artistic pursuits that defined his life. McEwen was singularly devoted to the technical aspects and traditions of his crafts and how they enabled him to capture the essence of his subjects—plants of all kind—in all their organic beauty. In celebration of their current exhibit, Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature, the Driehaus Museum has graciously loaned Tulip Petal III (red and white) to the Nature Museum for a limited time.
McEwen's work served as a catalyst and inspired the creation of A Brush With Nature. For a limited time, this companion exhibition will feature Tulip Petal III alongside a variety of watercolors by regional artists. This collaborative installation furthers the Nature Museum’s ongoing effort to highlight regional talent alongside its regional exhibition schedule.
Access to this exhibit is included with Museum admission.
Rory McEwan (1932-1982), Tulip Petal III (red and white), 1976, oil on canvas, 182.8x182.8cm, Devonshire Collection, Chatsworth
A Closer Look
Explore some of the featured pieces below.
Hibiscus Pod in Snow
Simon Cygielski
2025
Watercolor
15" x 22"
Forest Floor Tall Grass Prairie Cook County
P. Enquist
2019
8” x 12”
Crocus in the Snow
Amanda Soto
2025
5" x 7"
Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature
We are grateful to the wonderful group at the Driehaus Museum for providing Rory McEwen's print in partnership with their exhibit Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature.
Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature explores the trailblazing career and legacy of Scottish artist Rory McEwen, whose work is considered one of the major turning points in the development of contemporary botanical art. Presenting over one hundred works, including sculpture and manuscripts, the exhibition reveals how McEwen forged his own personal interpretation of 20th century modernism, portraying flowers, leaves, and vegetables as individual subjects worthy of their own portraits. Establishing McEwen’s role in shaping new generations of artists, the exhibition also features the work of contemporary botanical artists who continue to shape McEwen’s artistic legacy today. Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature will be on view at the Driehaus Museum, 50 E. Erie Street from May 16 to August 17, 2025.
This exhibit is made possible by support from:
