Jens Jensen Day 2026

Reserve your ticket today to celebrate the landscape and legacy of Jensen. Film, panel, and tours of his work, including our own gardens.
About this Event

A Legacy of Humanity and Nature

Join our annual celebration of Jens Jensen and the powerful vision that shaped our own gardens at the Harley Clarke Mansion as well as so many other transformative landscapes, including the Chicago Park District and the Indiana Dunes.

Jensen's passion for native landscapes and for urban natural areas is more relevant than ever today as we work for urban equity and resilience in the face of climate change.

This is a landscape of the mind (economic similarities and need), of the heart (with the ambition to foster connection and democracy), and of the soul (with very deep roots). And it is more essential now than ever.

JJGE founder Charles Smith will be joined by experts including:

Bob Grese is Professor Emeritus, Landscape Architecture, School for Environment and Sustainability at the University of Michigan. Bob is the author of many books and articles on Jensen and native landscapes, including Jens Jensen: Maker of Natural Parks and Gardens.

Julia Bachrach is a landscape historian and preservation consultant who previously served as Chicago Park District historian and planning supervisor for more than two decades. Julia's books include The City in a Garden: A History of Chicago’s Parks.

Joel Baldin is Director – Urban Design at RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture, the landscape architects updating and restoring the Jens Jensen Gardens at the Harley Clarke Mansion. Joel is a regular speaker on historic landscapes and has led the restoration of many Jensen and Caldwell landscapes.

Carey Lundin, an award-winning filmmaker who created and directed Jens Jensen, the Living Green, which we will screen throughout the event. Carey is a versatile director and co-writer recognized for her contributions to both comedy and drama, including "Citizen Kate." She is grateful to have designed the Gift of Hope organ donor campaign with Adelstein/Liston, which helped raise the Midwest donor registry to the highest in the nation.

Food and drinks will be provided.

Meet at 10a at the Greenhouse at 2603 Sheridan Road. All are welcome.

TIMING...

10:00a Welcome, Orientation, Introductions, and Recognition

10:30a Panel: Jensen's Landscapes of Mind, Heart and Soul with Charles Smith moderating Bob Grese, Julia Bachrach, Joel Baldwin and Carey Lundin.

11:30 Q&A

12:00p Choice of Guided Tour, Film Screening, or Group Discussion
greenhouse - milkweed giveaway

Post-Event Option Group walk to Shakespeare Garden (15 minutes walk from Harley Clarke)