THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience an exclusive watercolor workshop with artist Sarah McRae at the Farnsworth House. Enjoy a guided architectural tour followed by a creative art session inspired by the stunning Illinois landscape.
Experience an exclusive watercolor workshop with artist Sarah McRae at the Farnsworth House. Enjoy a guided architectural tour followed by a creative art session inspired by the stunning Illinois landscape.
Book with Farnsworth House
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Farnsworth House · Plano, Illinois
Join artist Sarah McRae for a private watercolor workshop at the iconic Edith Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois. This unique experience blends art and architecture, beginning with a guided tour of the Farnsworth House to explore its modernist design and inspiring surrounding landscape. Afterward, participants engage in a hands-on watercolor session led by Sarah, using the natural beauty and architectural lines as inspiration. Whether you're an experienced painter or a curious beginner, the workshop caters to all skill levels and encourages creative expression in a peaceful, historic setting. Limited tickets ensure a personalized atmosphere, making this a one-of-a-kind opportunity for art lovers interested in exploring creativity while enjoying a cultural landmark. Bring your passion for art and enjoy a relaxed day of painting, learning, and connecting with others in an intimate and scenic environment.
easy.
3–4 hours.
Minimal physical exertion is required, mostly walking and standing during the tour and seated during painting.
No, the workshop welcomes all skill levels, from beginners to advanced artists.
Basic supplies are provided, but you are encouraged to bring your favorite materials for a personalized experience.
Yes, the workshop begins with a guided tour of the Farnsworth House and its exhibits.
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including the tour and painting session.
This workshop is designed mainly for adults and older teens with an interest in art.
In case of adverse weather, protective arrangements are made, and you will be notified of any changes.
The Farnsworth House is a pioneering example of modernist architecture designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, built in the early 1950s.
Efforts are ongoing to preserve the house and surrounding landscape with sustainable practices that protect the Fox River and native habitats.
Farnsworth House is a historic modernist house in Plano, Illinois dedicated to architecture, art, and landscape interpretation. Operated as a conserved cultural site, Farnsworth House offers guided tours of the Edith Farnsworth House and self-guided access to 60 acres of grounds from March through November. Visitors can join specialized experiences including watercolor workshops, canoe trips along the Fox River, moonlight tours, curator-led talks, live music evenings, and collaborative events with local partners. Programs at Farnsworth House combine architectural interpretation with seasonal exhibitions and community-focused events. Expert guides provide 90-minute tours that explore Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's design, the property's preservation efforts, and the house's place in Mid-Century Modern history. Special events feature artist talks, exhibit openings, and joint tours with nearby cultural organizations and local distilleries. Farnsworth House engages recognized curators and artists to present rotating exhibitions that illuminate local and Native American art, including focused conversations on artists such as Truman Lowe. Families, architecture enthusiasts, art students, and outdoor recreation visitors find value in combined offerings like canoe-and-tour days, the Trifecta House tour with additional private homes, and evening music and dining events. Farnsworth House's blend of education, conservation, and cultural programming positions it as a trusted destination for learning, photography, and reflective visits to a landmark of American modernism. Seasonal ticketing and limited capacities ensure personalized, high-quality visitor experiences year-round.
Book with Farnsworth House