Shown above in the first slide is Dr. Jim Watson standing in front of the posters at Cold Spring Harbor Lab's Personal Genome meeting.

This is a design concept for an outreach project to engage the public in human genome research. It’s a series of original art that depict some of the amazing human stories found in our DNA. Displayed in the photograph (above) are examples of posters and handmade books that would promote the project.

The project’s goal is to communicate the value of scientific inquiry.

By showing art, narrative and science side by side, the main concepts can be grasped quickly.

The creative process begins with sketches based on a peer reviewed paper. The sketches are transformed into an image and a story is written about the very cool research. The art and the stories are content for the web site “OneCoolMolecule.com”.

Summary of Key Points and Benefits

WHAT: The project shows art and science side by side in multiple media formats:
• Each image has a written narrative describing the science and how it relates to our lives. The art and stories are content for a web site and a traveling art exhibit.
• Posters could be sent to clinics, schools, and other public venues to promote the project.

WHY: Human genome research is driving profound cultural changes. Yet many people are uninformed, creating barriers to full citizenship in a changing world. This very cool molecule has amazing stories waiting to be told that will delight and inform people.

GOAL: Communicate, inform and engage people in the discoveries in DNA through art and narrative.

WHO: Lynn Fellman is artist, writer, and creative director in collaboration with a science foundation or science organization.