That Which Connects Us: Intaglio prints by Buswell now featured in gallery exhibit

The collection of prints examines the concept of community through the imagery of trees, according to Buswell. Inspired by a TED Talk by Suzanne Simard in 2016, Buswell became interested in fungal mycelium and its role in connecting root networks.

“It got me thinking about how trees are this embodiment of community. So, I started [printing] trees of various communities that mean something to me in the Lincoln and Omaha area,” Buswell said, “‘Hawley’ is a tree in my neighborhood that I used to pass by every day on my way to work, and ‘Downtown’ is a tree I could see out my window at work.”

The collection showcases intaglio prints, a technique where designs are incised into a surface and ink is transferred from the grooves, including a combination of etchings and mezzotints.

Currently a member of Karen Kunc’s Constellation Studios, Buswell’s work has been displayed in Egypt, Dubai, France, and Italy. Originally from Council Bluffs, Iowa, he is a graduate of the University of Nebraska and lives in Lincoln.

On Feb. 13, Buswell will host a workshop for ART 225 Printmaking students. Buswell said students will learn a more ecological way of etching by using everyday items such as aluminum and salt.

“Etching is notorious for involving solutions that are toxic not only to the human body, but to the environment as well; but there’s a way of salt etching which allows you to touch the solutions and even pour them down the drain when you’re done,” Buswell said.

Additionally, on Feb. 14, Buswell will give a guest lecture in ART 239 Elements of Art.