The cells painted outside of the body come together to form a person. Actual cell types present in the human body are represented, including blood cells, ciliated epithelial cells, liver cells, and nerve cells. The figure has a strong classical look suggesting a solid foundation in past scientific tradition, yet could be interpreted as male or female, reflecting the increasing inclusive nature of science. The panels took the artist 13 months to complete, from the initial design phase until the installation in October 1999. All of the non-figure areas have been painted with transparent washes of modern acrylic, reminiscent of microscope slides of stained cells.
Acrylic polymer is a newer medium to artists as bio-polymer is to tissue engineers.
Numerous layers of color have been applied to provide texture and depth. Graphite shading emphasizes a classical foundation based on traditional medical illustration technique. It was the artist's desire to use a wooden surface, and to leave the figure unpainted, allowing the random imperfections in the grain to be visible on the human form, as a reminder to accept human failings while striving for inspired greatness. These positions fused her passionate interests in art and science and taught her the synergistic effect of interdisciplinary activities. All rights reserved.