Dunn Museum's Exhibit Showcases Pollinators' Vital Role

The 'For the Love of Pollinators' exhibit highlights the importance of pollinators in ecosystems through art and interactive elements.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The Dunn Museum in Libertyville, Illinois is hosting an exhibit called 'For the Love of Pollinators' from February 14 to May 31, 2026. The exhibit, inspired by the work of The Bee Collective in Columbus, Ohio, uses art to educate visitors about the critical role pollinators play in maintaining healthy ecosystems. The exhibit features over 30 artworks created in collaboration between artists and honey bees, as well as interactive elements that allow visitors to build their own bees and learn about native pollinators in Lake County.

Why it matters

Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and other insects, are essential for maintaining the health of natural ecosystems and supporting the production of 80% of the crops we rely on. However, pollinator populations have been declining due to factors like habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. This exhibit aims to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators and inspire visitors to take action to support them in their own yards and communities.

The details

The exhibit was developed by a team of pollinator experts, ecologists, and educators from the Lake County Forest Preserves. It will feature a variety of interactive elements, including videos, art pieces, and the opportunity for visitors to build their own bees. Restoration ecologist Dan Sandacz was heavily involved in creating the content, drawing on his work monitoring plants and pollinators in the preserves. The exhibit will also showcase photos of local pollinators taken by volunteer Dale Shields.

  • The 'For the Love of Pollinators' exhibit will be on display at the Dunn Museum from February 14 to May 31, 2026.
  • The museum will host 14 events related to the exhibit, including nature storytimes, workshops, and educational programs, between March and April 2026.

The players

Alyssa Firkus

Director of Education for the Lake County Forest Preserves, who helped develop the exhibit.

Luke Howard

Founder of The Bee Collective in Columbus, Ohio, who provided artwork and expertise for the exhibit.

Dan Sandacz

Restoration ecologist for the Lake County Forest Preserves, who helped develop the content for the exhibit based on his work monitoring plants and pollinators.

Dale Shields

Volunteer who provided photos of local pollinators that will be featured throughout the exhibit.

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