The beauty of being a human is that we come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. It’s our differences that make each individual unique. Yet the one thing that connects us, is that we are all made up of DNA. Have you ever thought of your DNA as art? University City Science Center’s new exhibit, The America Project by Paul Vanouse, brings the art of DNA to life. This free exhibit opened October 20 at The Esther Klein Gallery and runs through November 19. The America Project can be enjoyed Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The America Project is an interactive exhibit that features your donated DNA (saliva collected by guests) using a process called DNA Gel Electrophoresis. Also known as DNA Fingerprintings; which the artist uses to create recognizable images. Guests can choose to donate their DNA using a a 1 oz. cup of saline solution and asked to swish for thirty seconds, then deposit into a spittoon. The artist then uses your DNA to create art; like a crown, warplanes and a flag, which will be visible as video projections of the live electrophoresis gels throughout the exhibition. Guests will also be able to see art using different DNA mix together, sort of like a melting pot of DNA art. If you chose not to donate your DNA, you can still enjoy art created from other volunteers.
The world is one big painting made up of the many kinds of people inhabiting it. Though we are all special in our own way; it is our DNA that reminds that we are all humans. The America Project exhibit at The Esther Klein Gallery allows visitors to see the art in DNA and even allows them to be a part of the exhibit.
The America Project by Paul Vanouse
October 20,2016 – November 19,2016
Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Esther Klein Gallery, 3600 Market Street
The Exhibit is Free
