Don’t miss Maxwell Anderson, The Melvin & Bren Simon Director and CEO of the IMA, in a lively dialogue with one of the leading architects and designers in LA today: Greg Lynn, a principal of the firm Greg Lynn FORM. Lynn is a pioneer at the intersection of computing, design, and architecture. In 2008, he was named the Venice Biennale Golden Lion recipient; and in 2005, Forbes named him one of the top ten trend-setters in architecture.

Our annual salute to spring has expanded to include not just perennials, but annuals, tropicals, small trees and shrubs, herbs, heirloom vegetable seedlings, and packets of flower and vegetable seeds. Browse other vendor booths featuring specialty plants and grab a snack prepared with locally grown ingredients at Nourish Café’s stand. As always, the IMA’s horticulture staff will be on hand all weekend to answer your gardening questions. Special IMA member preview: Saturday from 8-10 am.

Can garden design be a subversive act?

These days, many people are looking for ways to save—save energy, save a penny, save the environment. IMA horticulturist Patty Schneider challenges you to explore a way to save in all three by composting the organic materials we use every day to provide a sustainable, natural alternative to eliminating waste. Regardless of space available, Schneider will convince you that there is a method for composting that will fit your needs. Class price includes your own Kitchen Compost Carrier for making an easy, odor-free transition to composting kitchen scraps. Class size limited to 20.

Landscape design is not rocket science, but it is more than just drawing circles and squiggles on paper. IMA horticulturist Geoff Von Burg will present some basic ideas and rules to help you feel comfortable with your project, including best sites for trees and beds, how to frame and screen views, the best use of areas, and when to call for a professional. Bring your sketches, photos and questions. Photos and questions submitted in advance for use as anonymous examples are appreciated. Send to gvonburg@imamuseum.org.

Rain gardens can slow or eliminate runoff, reduce the amount of water entering streams, rivers and municipal sewers, as well as be an attractive way to deal with storm water. Additionally, they can have a positive impact on the environment by filtering out pollutants and sediment, reducing the need to use fertilizers and pesticides, providing food and shelter for wildlife.

Our understanding and appreciation of a work of art is influenced by its context—its location within the museum, our perception of the place where it was created, our knowledge of history. These are important considerations, but they don’t account for the power of each work of art to communicate in a universal visual language. This class will discuss works in Tara Donovan: Untitled and visit the permanent collection to identify common visual elements in seemingly dissimilar artworks from other times and places. Taught by Phillip Lynam, Manager of Art and Design Education at IMA.

Enjoy a wonderful spring-inspired brunch buffet by Nourish Café in Deer Zink Events Pavilion with views of flowering bulbs followed by a stroll in our gardens and orchard. Feast on traditional brunch fare, with menu items focusing on the freshest and best available local ingredients.

Members and their families are invited to preview Tara Donovan: Untitled before it opens to the public. Enjoy free art activities, double discounts on exhibition merchandise, tours and more. Reservations not required; just show your membership card for admission.

Free admission to Tara Donovan: Untitled is made possible by a grant from Eli Lilly and Company Foundation.

Attend an exclusive preview and celebration of this extraordinary exhibition highlighting MacArthur Genius Award-winner Tara Donovan’s layered landscape-like installations made from common everyday materials, such as plastic cups, tar paper, cut electrical cable, pencils and Elmer’s glue. Cash bar and refreshments will be available.

Free admission to Tara Donovan: Untitled is made possible by a grant from Eli Lilly and Company Foundation.