Appreciating the Intricacies of Science Through Sculpture: The Powerhouse of the Cell

Written and Sculpted by Emily L. Eberhardt
Edited by Kate Giffin

Amidst the global pandemic in 2020, I began to explore science through art. In my research, I studied mitochondrial proteins (mitochondria are small structures in cells that produce necessary energy), but with lab closures, my hands were idle. With a box of beads, a freshly-passed candidacy exam, and limitless time, I sat and considered the power of mitochondria. Fascinated by their complexity, I began to craft sculptures. 

To make my mitochondrial sculptures, I first make a basic hemisphere-shaped frame by stringing a variety of beads onto wire. I then use larger beads and sturdy wire to make the outer mitochondrial membrane. Once I have a network of beads, I weave in smaller beads to fill in the gaps. Next, I move to the inner mitochondrial membrane and matrix, usually choosing a contrasting color to highlight compositional differences in proteins. Once I’ve molded the membrane and placed the matrix, I finish the sculpture with small wire mitochondrial chromosomes.
Over the years, creating these sculptures has become a form of meditative relaxation. As a scientist, I’ve spent years poring over spreadsheets, re-reading papers, and racking my brain for solutions to complex problems. Meanwhile, creative exploration has allowed me to gain a newfound perspective on the world around me. As I weave beads and wire and imagine my next completed powerhouse, I often reflect on my research journey. By embracing my imagination, I have become more curious and flexible in the lab. Altogether, my inspired independent studies have forged a connection between my research and artistic passion.

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