The dirt: Artist talk and walk

Artist talk and walk Artist Holly Swift credits the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum as providing inspiration for many of her paintings.

Swift's works are featured in the Minnesota Museum of American Art and she will talk Thursday about the integral role that nature plays in her paintings. The "Painting the Place Between" event is from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska.

After an indoor presentation, Swift will lead a hike of the grounds, focusing on areas that she paints during the winter -- the Japanese garden and the crabapple and oak woods.

After the hike, participants can return to the classroom for cocoa and hear a discussion of the documentary project "Painting the Place Between" by Swift and filmmaker Kristen Lowe.

Cost is $12; free for members. To register, visit www.arboretum.umn.edu/artsdesigncrafts.aspx or call 952-443-1422.

Floral design workshop Try a new twist on a traditional holiday centerpiece. Bachman's designers will demonstrate modern floral arranging techniques and styles, from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at various Bachman's locations. A $40 fee includes all supplies. To register, go to www.bachmans.com.

LYNN UNDERWOOD