The LUX Print Collection

In September 1997, Ms. Lux transferred ownership of her personal collection of nearly 500 master prints to The LUX Center for the Arts. The prints, purchased to use in her classes, had come primarily from two organizations. The majority were acquired from the Associated American Artists, in New York City. Started in 1934, the AAA was founded on the principle that original fine artwork should not be restricted to a select few. Private collecting in the United States had been limited mostly to paintings, while original prints were sought by only museums and scholars. So to broaden the reach of the art world, artists such as Thomas Hart Benton, Grant Wood, and John Steuart Curry agreed to offer their prints to collectors throughout the country for as little as five dollars each. The prints were issued in editions of 250 and individually signed by the artist.

The second organization from which Ms. Lux purchased prints was the American Collegiate Society of Print Collectors. Formed in 1930, this group sold prints exclusively to college art departments. The society was forced to suspend activities during the Depression due to the financial condition of many universities.

Curated exhibitions of Ms. Lux’s prints may be seen throughout the year on the second floor of The LUX Center for the Arts in the Gladys Lux Historical Gallery. Susan Soriente is the part-time curator of the LUX Print Collection, and her position is supported in part by the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation. Susan maintains the prints and produces four exhibitions in the LUX Print Gallery each year. She also works with Lincoln Public Schools teachers to create curriculum based on the LUX print collection, that LPS art teachers use in their classrooms.

Teacher Tools

Lincoln Public Schools art specialists have created a series of lesson and unit ideas based upon the LUX print collection. The unit plans are written using the National Standards of Art and you can adjust the lessons for all ages of students. We’re excited for you to use these lesson opportunities with the LUX print exhibitions in your classroom.