Adult Opportunities

Introduction to Design Elements of East Asian Gardens

Explore landscape design elements characteristic to East Asian gardens.

Content Detail

Many major American cities feature gardens inspired by Japanese and Chinese design traditions. In this single-session program at The Morton Arboretum, explore the traditional elements of East Asian gardens and the Confucian symbolism expressed through their design. Learn how thoughtfully arranged ponds, paths, and pavilions support relaxation, mindfulness, and inner peace, while gaining insight into the cultural history that informs these landscapes.

Instructor Yvonne Wolf will present examples from The Morton Arboretum and Ping Tom Park in Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood.

This program meets in person at the Arboretum.

Instructor: Yvonne Wolf, cultural consultant and educator

Age: 16 and older

Course number: H330

Instructor

Yvonne Wolf, cultural consultant and educator

Intercultural consultant and educator Yvonne Wolf delivers presentations that clarify the elements of Chinese culture in an accessible, relatable context. She has given talks at libraries, museums, and community centers. Yvonne’s thoughtful consideration serves to enrich her entertaining presentations.

Wolf is founder of Chinese Intercultural, LLC. She offers professional intercultural training, helps businesses to expand their outreach, and shares the knowledge and skills she has acquired. Yvonne has lived in four different countries and is fluent in Chinese-Mandarin, English, and Danish. She was born in Taiwan, educated in the US and Europe, and is a native Chinese speaker.

What to Know

This program meets indoors.

Please bring materials for taking notes and a water bottle.

Program Schedule

Thursday, April 30, 2026, 10:30 a.m. to noon

Cudahy Room, Administration and Research Center (parking lot P-1), East Side

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