“Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae live cells as a model to study RAS mRNA and interactions with small molecules using fluorescent microscopy”

Lind Stevens

Watercolor and gouache on paper

I was drawn to this topic because it had to do with biology, which I find fascinating, mRNA cells, simple yeast cells, fluorescent microscopy, and the hope of finding a cure for cancer. Through the use of design, with emphasis on color, repetition, and shape, I hoped to capture some of these concepts in an artwork that would give homage to them. The molecular structure of RNA was suggested by the five-sided shapes and attached lines. The vase was inspired by the shape of a single yeast cell. The thick, dark lines under the vase depict the journey of discovery offered by research. The dangling, straight brown lines, provide a sense of something gone awry. And last, the green dots echo the use of green fluorescence used in this study, with the leaf shape suggesting the hope of health.

Mentored by: Fahimeh Vahdat