Ready to take a creative risk and discover abstract botanical painting? Students in this four-session program will create bold, playful compositions inspired by garden elements and imagination. Experiment with combining flowers, leaves, stems, and other natural forms into unique and expressive designs. Learn about the concepts of balance, shape, and visual storytelling while discovering new ways to translate the beauty of nature into art.
All experience levels are welcome.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructor: Rich Lo, visual artist
Age: 16 and older
Course number: A401
Instructor
Rich Lo, visual artist
Rich Lo is an accomplished artist and illustrator whose journey began in Canton, China, where he, along with his six siblings, discovered a passion for drawing and painting. At the age of seven, he and his family emigrated from Hong Kong to the United States, finally settling in Chicago’s vibrant Chinatown. As an illustrator, Lo’s work has appeared in various platforms, from packaging and advertisements for national brands to television commercials. As a fine artist, he has created a diverse collection of unique paintings and drawings, including large installations in downtown Chicago.
Lo has enriched Chicago and DuPage County with public murals, including Chinese Opera and Chinese Kite Festival, and was selected to create Ukiyo-e-inspired illustrations of local landmarks for the Waves of DuPage Beautiful Cities Public Art Project. Rich Lo’s commitment to promoting Chinese culture and traditions extends beyond his artwork. He has written and illustrated many books to share the beauty and richness of Chinese culture, including the award-winning Father Chinese Opera. His current exhibit, Gold Mountain, An American Story (2025–2026) at the Chinese American Museum of Chicago explores an immigrant’s journey in Chinatown.
What to Know
This program meets indoors.
This program is open to all experience levels.
Below is a suggested list of supplies. Students are encouraged to bring a variety of painting supplies that they already own to the first class.
See Education Program Policies for information about cancellations, refunds, and scholarships.
Suggested Supplies
Acrylic paints in a variety of colors
- Students who already own acrylic paints are encouraged to bring what they have
- Brands recommended by the instructor include Utrecht, Golden, and Winsor Newton
Watercolor paper and/or stretched canvas
- Size 9×12″ to 16×20″
- Heavyweight (190 lb to 300 lb)
Paintbrushes
- Flat, angled, or round
- Sizes 1/4″ to 3/4″
Pencil
Small cloth
Container for water to clean brushes
Palette
- This can be a styrofoam plate, ceramic dish, or any palette the student prefers
Program Schedule
This program meets the following four times.
Wednesday, August 26, 2026, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, September 16, 2026, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Thornhill Education Center (parking lot P-21), West Side
