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The Brunnier Art Museum reopens on Wednesday, August 24 with an exhibition of woodblock prints and wood sculptures from nationally recognized artist and Ames native John Buck.

Drawn from the collections of the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation, this major exhibition features prints and sculptures that span a 40-year period.

In the exhibition John Buck: Prints and Sculpture from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation, Buck explores national and global issues in sophisticated works of art that are imbued with complex iconography and often layered with multiple meanings.

“My sculpture is inspired by contemporary issues as well as indigenous and folk art of many cultures,” Buck said. “My approach to sculpture is a combination of figurative and abstract compositions which represent the imagination as physical forms and that combine the properties of balance and tension.”

Over the years, Buck has become fascinated with the cultural imagery surrounding his homes in Montana and Hawaii, current events, popular culture, and the irony and humor found in world history and this collected visual vocabulary is woven throughout his printed and sculptural work.

The public is invited to a free reception on Thursday, September 1 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. in the Brunnier Art Museum to celebrate this exhibition, look closely at the intricate and unique works of art, and discuss with University Museums staff and friends. Light refreshments will be served.

About the exhibition

Buck’s art demonstrates insight and perspective on the social and political realities of the day. It often explores the enormity and complexity of conflict, yet his figures are whimsical and resilient. Buck manages to make provocative “issues” art, treating the conflict seriously, while his combination of symbols and figures display a sense of humor, and therefore an optimistic balance.

Admission to the Brunnier Art Museum and all University Museums at Iowa State University is free and open to the public. There is a suggested donation of $8. Reopening August 24, 2022, the Brunnier Art Museum is open Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The museum is closed to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays, but Iowa State University curriculum tours may be scheduled for these days with two-weeks’ notice. All University Museums are closed for University Holidays.

This exhibition is organized by the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation and the Hallie Ford Museum of Art. The exhibition is hosted by University Museums with generous support from Stewart Burger, H. Dieter and Renate Dellmann, Priscilla K. and Charles R. Sage, Jim and Diane Patton, and University Museums membership.

Exhibition programs

Find full descriptions of programs on the University Museums Calendar.

All programs are free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged but not required. Click the event title to register. Events will be held at the Brunnier Art Museum, 1805 Center Dr., 295 Scheman Building, Ames, Iowa, unless otherwise noted. Programs are subject to change.

For further details about additional Brunnier Gallery events and exhibitions, please click here.