Decorah residents interested in Norwegian-American art will be able to take part in a free Vesterheim rosemaling demonstration from home on Sunday, October 4, 2026. The online Cultural Connections webinar will run from 3 to 4 p.m. Central Time, giving local participants a way to attend without traveling to Vesterheim or another venue.
Although the program is free, registration is required. Participants must complete Vesterheim’s registration process before the webinar to receive the Zoom link and other connection information. Anyone planning to attend should register before the session begins.
What the rosemaling demonstration will cover
Artist Tara will demonstrate 10 original rosemaling designs inspired by plants from the boreal ecosystem. The presentation will explore how each plant’s form and character can influence decorative painting, while also showing how traditional rosemaling brushwork can be adapted for contemporary botanical design.
The featured designs will draw on the following plants:
- Trout Lily
- Rowan Berry
- Lady’s Slipper
- Blue Flag Iris
- Wild Rose
- Coral Root
- Arrowhead
- Pipsissewa
- Marsh Marigold
- Maple Leaf
The webinar will not treat the plants only as subjects to copy. Instead, the session will connect established painting methods with newer interpretations of plant forms, giving attendees a chance to see how a traditional craft can be used in contemporary botanical artwork.
Botanical art and plant classification
Vesterheim’s presentation will also 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 historical link between the plant-focused artwork and the development of plant classification. By bringing together rosemaling, botanical design and Norwegian-American arts, the webinar will consider how plant history and traditional painting can inform one another.
Rosemaling is a decorative painting tradition associated with Norwegian-American art. The October 4 program is intended for people interested in modern botanical art, established rosemaling techniques and the continuing development of traditional craft practices through contemporary art.
While promoted to Decorah residents, the online event is also open to people outside the area. Its virtual format will allow local participants to connect with a broader audience through Vesterheim’s Cultural Connections program. Registration remains the key next step for anyone who wants to receive the Zoom information and attend.