Good earth at Form + Content

It takes a farmer or a linguist to recognize, and to celebrate, the distinction between "dirt" and "soil." Artist Sandra Menefee Taylor, who grew up in southern Minnesota farming territory, says "dirt" refers to "something unwanted, disposable, even offensive," but "soil" is "a life-giving medium that should be nurtured carefully." In her new show, Taylor hopes to raise awareness of the fragility and importance of good earth and what must be done to maintain its health and nurture its productivity. Beauty will be her tool in an installation that promises etched glass panels, monoprints and "lace" made of flour, roots and dirt itself. (Opening reception 6-8:30 p.m. Fri., Form + Content Gallery, 210 N. 2nd St., Mpls. Ends Sept. 17. Free. 612-436-1151 or formandcontent.org.) Mary Abbe