An Interpretive Field Guide to Chicago

Do you have a favorite park or green space in the city? From the pathways of Humboldt Park and the nestled grasses of Palmisano Park to the tree lined streets of Hyde Park and the sands of Rainbow Beach, Chicago is home to varied plants, insects, and animals. What catches your eye? What makes it special?

Maker-in-Residence Katelyn Patton is creating an Interpretive Field Guide to Chicago and she needs your help to gather inspiration from all across the city. Join her throughout the summer with workshops reinterpreting native flora and fauna and discussing native plants. Try making your own with her downloadable guides, or reinterpret nature using found materials around the house like fabric, paper, and cardboard.

Then, submit a photo of the plant, insect, or animal that inspires you and a photo of the interpretation you created, to be included in the digital Field Guide to Chicago. Patton’s residency will conclude with an exhibition on display at the Harold Washington Library Center in the fall.

Submissions are now closed. Learn more about Patton's display and residency.