Decorah residents interested in Norwegian-American art will have an opportunity to watch a free Vesterheim program from home this fall. The museum’s online Cultural Connections webinar is scheduled for 3 to 4 p.m. Central Time on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
The one-hour session will focus on rosemaling, botanical design and the history of plant classification. Artist Tara will demonstrate 10 original rosemaling designs inspired by plants found in the boreal ecosystem, showing how traditional brushwork can be used to create contemporary botanical art.
How to join the Vesterheim webinar
The program will be held online, meaning participants will not need to travel to Vesterheim or another venue. Although the event is promoted to Decorah residents, its virtual format also permits people outside the area to attend.
There is no charge to participate, but advance registration with Vesterheim is required. People who register will receive the Zoom meeting link and other connection information. The supplied event information does not list a separate registration deadline, so residents who plan to attend should complete registration before the Oct. 4 program.
Ten plants behind the rosemaling designs
The demonstration will draw on 10 plants associated with the boreal ecosystem:
- Trout Lily
- Rowan Berry
- Lady’s Slipper
- Blue Flag Iris
- Wild Rose
- Coral Root
- Arrowhead
- Pipsissewa
- Marsh Marigold
- Maple Leaf
The plants are intended to serve as more than simple subjects for viewers to copy. The supplied event information says the presentation will examine newer interpretations of plant forms through established rosemaling techniques and will show how traditional painting practices can be adapted to contemporary botanical design.
Art, science and plant history
Alongside the painting demonstration, the webinar will include a brief discussion of botanical art and the history of plant classification. The program will reference Carl Linnaeus and his apprentice, Anders Dahl.
Dahl’s name remains part of the word “dahlia,” creating a connection between the history of plant classification and the webinar’s plant-focused artwork. By combining rosemaling, botanical design and Norwegian-American arts, the session will consider how plant history and traditional painting can influence one another.
For Decorah viewers, registering with Vesterheim in advance is the stated next step for obtaining the Zoom information. The program is aimed at people interested in modern botanical art, established rosemaling techniques and the continuing development of traditional craft practices through contemporary art.