Live Auction
100
2027 Exhibition Statuette
Live ItemBring a dreamlike presence into your surroundings with Fruitflower, a one-of-a-kind sculpture by Rommy Gonzalez, the visual artist behind The Morton Arboretum's 2027 exhibition, Tree Dimensions. A miniature of one of the exhibition's large-scale installations-the sculpture measures approximately 15" by 15"-the piece is crafted from transparent, vibrantly colored laser-cut acrylic, creating an ethereal form that shifts and responds to light. Inspired by the diversity of The Morton Arboretum and the Chicago region, the work celebrates the transformation of a flower into fruit-a symbol of life, fertility, and the continuity of forests. Honoring the Quercus family and American hickory species, Gonzalez explores the connections between botany, science, and imagination. Vibrant forms and colors evoke pollination and natural cycles, transforming botanical processes into a poetic encounter where nature and fantasy merge. Gonzalez's multidisciplinary practice spans painting, illustration, installation, textiles, video projection, and performance. Her work has been exhibited internationally in more than 10 countries, including Chile, Germany, Hong Kong, and the United States. Courtesy of Rommy Gonzalez
101
Weekend at Yellowstone Club
Live ItemEnjoy a four-day, three-night stay at Yellowstone Club, the world's only private ski club, golf resort, and adventure-focused community. Located in the mountains just west of Big Sky, Montana, Yellowstone Club occupies a vast and pristine landscape of more than 15,000 acres. It is regarded as the world's most exclusive club by Forbes Magazine, and serves as a private haven for top executives and celebrities. Yellowstone Club boasts awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Rockies, world-class skiing, a championship golf course, fly fishing, horseback riding, racquet sports, ice skating and hockey, a heated pool, fitness center, hiking on more than 40 miles of private alpine trails, and a wide array of children's activities. The 3,500-square foot house has four bedrooms. The primary bedroom has a king bed, the second bedroom has another king bed, the third bedroom has four twin bunk beds, and the fourth bedroom has two queen beds and one twin daybed. This stay and included amenities are available to a maximum of six adults and five children under the age of 18. Amenities include a house manager, a private hot tub, a fire pit, a great room with a large fireplace, a wet bar, and five bathrooms, including a soaking tub in the primary bedroom. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Redeemable late spring through early fall of 2027. Winter weekend availability is limited to January, late March or early April. Courtesy of Courtney and Maggie Reum.
102
Light Up Your Night
Live ItemBrand-new features and experiences will make this year's winter lights exhibition, Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum, its boldest and most captivating to date! Wow friends and family with a party during this mesmerizing experience, which will include four breathtaking new large-scale installations. Among them is a 400-foot northern lights-inspired canopy-the exhibition's most ambitious installation ever and available to experience during this Illumination season only. Other new features include an immersive tunnel of light and an enchanted landscape filled with glowing orbs and illuminated mushrooms. Guests will also enjoy a new model train fantasy woodland on display in Firefly Pavilion. Nearly 1,000 feet of train track will wind around whimsical miniature scenes and structures in a joyful experience for all ages. The party will include a dinner buffet, hot chocolate bar, beer, wine and soft drinks in a complimentary, private event space, access to the Illumination walking path and train experience throughout the evening, and glowing goodies to take home for 30 guests. Restrictions and blackout dates apply. Valid only during the 2026 Illumination season. Event time is three hours. Not redeemable on Saturdays or Sundays. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Courtesy of Ginkgo Catering.
104
Children's Garden Overnight
Live ItemDiscover the carefree joy found in childhood with this favorite auction prize. Experience a memorable night in the Children's Garden, perfect for the young and young at heart. Enjoy overnight camping and (new this year!) children's musical entertainment in this beloved four-acre space. Enjoy a catered dinner, wine, beer, soda, bonfire, s'mores, breakfast the next morning, even plumbed bathrooms and private security for up to 20 guests. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Must be scheduled at least 60 days in advance. Courtesy of Ginkgo Catering.