Art in Science

By Palina Kot

Hi, I am Palina, a designer for the Nagazasshi. To introduce myself, I would like to show you my recent Art-in-Science Series. I get a lot of inspiration for painting during my laboratory work at Nagasaki University.

This painting is the memory of my first day in the lab. I was so excited…I had never seen even simple things before. Everything is reflected in the eyes.

Doing a chromosome experiment (during dropping of fixed cell suspension). It is a very important and technically difficult step in this experiment, but I was encouraged by the fact that I will take a look at the real chromosomes soon!

Looking at chromosome rearrangements using FISH analysis. Near the right hand side, there is a rearranged chromosome of radial type, which I am interested in.

Not all experiments are successful. All researchers should be ready for this. On the table, there are many slides with failed chromosome samples. This is one of the most emotional drawings.

During the experiment, I try to find the answer to how DNA is repaired in different situations. Various DNA repair factors work in unknown and unclear ways like these cat-builders.

I was surprised that the washing of laboratory dishes can inspire a painting. Usually it is the last step of the experiment before receiving the data. So, you are motivated to do it faster and then run to look at the results.