Crabtree Nature Center in Barrington hosting annual Art in Nature Festival

Outdoor painting, live music, art activities and food can be enjoyed at the 15th annual Art in Nature Festival at Crabtree Nature Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6.

Crabtree Nature Center, at 3 Stover Road in Barrington, is one of six nature centers operated by the Forest Preserves of Cook County and offers a variety of art classes, nature programs and other activities throughout the year.

Attendees can view and purchase plein air paintings, which feature artists painting the landscapes of the nature preserve.

“We will be offering a number of art workshops, including buckthorn dyeing, watercolor painting and paper cutting, to allow people to create artwork that showcase the beauty of the forest preserves,” said Jeff Rapp, director of Crabtree Nature Center.

In addition, there will be honey sales, animal encounters and a presentation by travel blogger Melissa Schwartz in the center’s classroom.

Several local organizations such as the Barrington Area Library, Collies Without Borders and Trickster Cultural Center will be providing information about their services.

This year's event will include painting, creating with clay, drawing and print making. Visitors can view and purchase local art throughout the event.

Live music will be performed by the string duo Missing Piece from Chicago and local folk duo Second Wind.

Food will be available for purchase from Tasty Love Catering.

The event will also benefit Lizzy’s Fund for Senior Dogs, which is providing face-painting for a suggested donation.

For information on the event or the nature center, contact Crabtree directly at (847) 381-6592.