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The ����ֱ�� Museum of Natural History is now displaying 18 original art prints .

This project was organized by Tristen Luken, exhibitions and public programming specialist, as part of her internship at the museum. Read more from Luken in this Q&A.

Tristen Luken, exhibitions and public programming specialist for the ����ֱ�� Museum of Natural History

What is a print exchange?

A print exchange is when a select number of printmakers sign up to create an edition of prints around the same topic. At the end of the exchange, each artist ends up with one print from every artist involved.

What is the big idea/goal of this project?

The goal of this project was to partner with artists to showcase specimens from the museum’s herbarium collection. By showcasing artwork made from various printmaking techniques and creating an interactive exhibit, the museum can increase accessibility to its collections and build new relationships with the artists in the community.

What role did the museum’s collections play?

The collections are the highlight of this cross-disciplinary project. The purpose is to use art to showcase a scientific collection. Collections are often inaccessible to general visitors because of their delicate nature; there is so much amazing research being done with them, and I wanted to make them readily available to the public in some fashion and disseminate knowledge.��

This project serves as a vehicle to show these specimens and communicate to the public the importance of collections and how they can be activated for educational purposes. It does this in a manner that is engaging artists and accessible to any visitor. 

What was your role?

I organized the exchange and the exhibition. I took charge of gathering artists, working with the collection manager, and working with museum staff to complete the installation. I also spearheaded the exhibition design and implementation. The show includes educational interactive content, a digital component, and of course the framed artwork itself. 

What was most rewarding part of this project? Why?

I think the most rewarding part of this project is simply making it all happen! Getting everyone together to be creative and work toward the same goal is extremely fulfilling. You get to see all the hard work come together. Using art as an educational tool combines some of my favorite things.��

Of course, getting to see how the artists decided to showcase their specimen is always like opening gifts on Christmas!  It has been an amazing learning experience.

What do you want the audience to walk away knowing?

I hope the audience walks away with some new appreciation and knowledge for the flora and fauna of this region. I also hope they walk away inspired by seeing a collection highlighted in a unique way and gain new appreciation for this museum. 

What are your goals for the future?

I view myself as both an artist and museum professional. Creativity is the driving force for everything I do. I plan to continue to help make museums a safe and accessible space for everyone to come explore and learn something new.��

I want to continue to design engaging, unique exhibitions and programs to help inspire anyone who participates in them. I also want to continue to push myself as an artist and learn new skills I can then transfer to my museum profession. 

Advice for someone else considering this type of artistic career path?

I am still figuring this out myself. I have been lucky to have a great creative and professional support system to help me figure it out as I go. I think my best advice is to put yourself out there, ask as many questions as you need, and talk to as many people as you can. Connections are essential in this world.��

Plus, people are doing so many amazing things that you probably have never heard of. I had no idea I would end up in a museum when I started my studio art degree, but I kept asking people questions about it and gave it a shot. It led me to where I am today.

If someone wanted to do something similar, what advice would you give?

If you want to design a print exchange, I recommend finding one to be a part of first. There are so many amazing exchanges the print community organizes. The print world may be vast, but it is small. Between participating in one and asking questions to those who design them, you can easily design one yourself. 

When it comes to the museum collaboration element, I think it helps to have a support network that has a similar vision as you. Organize your ideas and present them—the worst that will happen is they will say no!