Art Events in Lake Forest

Ragdale, the nationally acclaimed artists’ retreat offers monthly, docent-led tours for individuals and groups. Ragdale, the nationally acclaimed artists’ residency program, located on the former Arts and Crafts country estate of architect Howard Van Doren Shaw and poet and playwright Francis Wells Shaw, offers tours of the historic Ragdale House, artist studios, and exquisite gardens. Participants will learn about the Shaw family history and the celebrated artist in residence program. These tours provide a special opportunity to explore the historic campus and experience the workings of an artists residency program. Visitors can experience the seven-acre site which includes three historic homes, several artist studios, gardens and vistas of the 50-acres Shaw Prairie. The Ragdale House and the Barn House, originally built in 1897, are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tour donations help to support the mission of Ragdale.