Environment — how does the way we define the lines between nature and the progress of humankind shape our idea of self and culture and guide our actions?

Featured works of nine designers/artists across the United States will spike curiosity in the aspects of environment at the “Transforming Metaphors of Identity” exhibition.

“The artists will be looking at the world environment and how individuals define environment and how it shapes our lives,” guest curator Ingrid Lilligren said.

Two national artists, George Gessert of Eugene, Ore., and Mags Harries of Cambridge, Mass., will discuss user-based landscape architecture and plant hybridization.

Gessert’s work focuses on the connections between hybridization, aesthetics and art. In comparison, Harries’ public art projects take a closer look at the interaction between people in settings such as subway stations and parks.

“With overuse, the world has lost nearly all meaning,” Lilligren said. “Through this exhibition and the accompanying forums, we will explore and perhaps redefine the world environment. We will examine the roles of artists and designers who engage environment as the arena for their activities.”

Through the works developed for this exhibition, many topics will be examined, from water issues and the social environments to activism and planet genetics.

The “Transforming Metaphors of Identity” exhibit will be on display at the Brunnier Art Museum through June 10. Museum hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m.

There will be an artists’ reception Sunday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Brunnier Art Museum.

Gessert and Harries will also participate in a panel discussion with Iowa State faculty members Susan Herrington, landscape architecture; Jamie Horowitz, architecture; Mike Bell, sociobiology and Michael Martin, landscape architecture on Tuesday from 2 to 4 p.m.