DNA can be Beautiful

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So after reading DigitalGhosts recommendation for James D. Watson’s DNA book followed by this quote from the author:

“We have tried to write for a general audience, intending that someone with zero biological knowledge should be able to understand the bookÂ’s every word”.

I just had to order it from Amazon. This gives me the perfect segue to talk about my favorite DNA inspired artwork. What doesn’t everybody have some favorite DNA inspired art?

The first, is the spire located outside of the Wonders of Life pavilion in Epcot (pictured above right). Despite the fact it’s made of bright pink, yellow and blue aluminum it’s actually very subtle and blends in with the surroundings, so most people don’t realize what it is when they walk by.

The next is the Fountain of Peace from the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine located in Harlem New York. The base of the statue features a DNA double helix shape. The platform level has the archangel Michael holding the sword of truth. At his feet you’ll see the decapitated body of Lucifer. His head is held upside down by a crab’s claw. There are nine giraffe’s on the statue which are a symbol of peace in Africa and parts of the Mediterranean. When you walk up the statue you’ll notice it’s turned at an odd angle to the street, and not perpendicular as you would expect. This is because the sun and moon which are behind Michael are aligned to face true east and west not Manhattan east and west. While it’s called the Fountain of Peace, it hasn’t had any water for over 10 years. There was a drought one year, and the fountain was turned off to conserve water. The base was filled with plants to keep it from looking barren, and they have been there ever since. Despite the fact that I’m not a religious person, the cathedral is one of my favorite places to visit in Manhattan.

So we started off at DG’s desk, progressed to Amazon, moved down to Disney World and ended up in a Church in Manhattan. Just be glad you don’t have to live inside of my head.

technorati tags: DNA, Epcot, Cathedral of Saint John.

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