Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature
May 16, 2025 to August 17, 2025
Presented by Driehaus Museum

“Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature is an exhibition exploring 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.

“In tandem with the exhibition, the Driehaus Museum will partner with organizations across Chicagoland on public programs, classes, and exhibits, including Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods, Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago Scots, the Magnificent Mile Association, The Morton Arboretum, Old Town School of Folk Music, and The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. 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.

“Central to the strategic vision of the Driehaus Museum is building community through partnerships and I am proud of the strong city and suburb partnerships we have cultivated around Rory McEwen,” says Driehaus Museum Executive Director Lisa M. Key. “This includes events, classes, workshops, musical performances, and companion exhibitions at partner organizations that complement McEwen’s exquisite visual art with other compelling perspectives into nature and music. We are always looking at ways to broaden the visitor experience and our many partnerships are a great illustration of that work.”