Decorah residents interested in Norwegian-American art will be able to watch a free Vesterheim program from home this fall, with no trip to the museum or another venue required. The online Cultural Connections webinar is scheduled for 3 to 4 p.m. Central Time on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.

The one-hour presentation will combine a live-style rosemaling demonstration with a discussion of botanical art and the history of plant classification. Artist Tara will demonstrate 10 original designs inspired by plants found in the boreal ecosystem, showing how traditional brushwork can be used to create contemporary botanical art.

How Decorah residents can 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 provide a separate registration deadline, so residents planning to attend should register before the Oct. 4 program.

Because the webinar is virtual, participants will not need to travel to Vesterheim. The program is promoted to Decorah residents, while its online format also allows people outside the area to attend.

Ten plants featured in the demonstration

The rosemaling designs 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 will serve as more than simple subjects for viewers to copy. The presentation will examine newer interpretations of plant forms through established rosemaling techniques and show how traditional painting practices can be adapted for contemporary botanical design.

Connecting art with 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,” linking the history of classification with the plant-focused artwork featured in the session.

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.