Alumni showing at ARx LIVE | Art + Science
Alum Muzi Li Rowe (M.F.A. 2017) and Jessica Wimbley (M.F.A. 2005) have teamed up with local researchers in the science and health care communities for the ARx Live program hosted by the Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC) in Sacramento.
The Artist and Researcher team of Rowe and Angelique Louie, a professor of Biomedical Engineering at UC Davis, collaborated on a project for MOSAC that explores the complex roles of macrophages, immune cells that can either help destroy tumors or promote their growth, depending on their environment. Understanding these different cellular responses is essential to developing new cancer therapies.
Rowe's and Louie's artwork consists of multiple transparent layers of epoxy resin, each painted with fluorescent representations of immune cells. When illuminated by UV light, the layers collectively create a three-dimensional visualization of the distribution and transitions between two macrophage subtypes. Inspired by molecular imaging techniques, the work translates complex biological processes into a tangible visual experience. Just as molecular imaging agents make otherwise invisible biological processes observable, the sculpture reveals cellular interactions that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
Wimbley drew on the research of Dr. Leigh Ann Simmons to develop her video installation "Weaving the Story: Welcome Baby." Simmons' research evaluated Yolo County's Welcome Baby: Road to Resilience program which is a community-based postpartum home-visiting program that supports Yolo County families through nurse-led health assessments, breatfeeding guidance, health education, connections to community resourceds, and specialized follow-up care.
Wimbley’s video installation uses fabric patterns and colors to distinguish among different perspectives. Hospital gowns represent patients’ voices, medical blue represents practitioners, and the pink-and-blue patterned newborn hats represent the program. Together, these elements form a multichannel video installation that explores maternal and newborn care, health concerns such as hypertension and preeclampsia, and the importance of advocacy. Arranged like quilt sections, the videos use fabric and weaving as visual metaphors for interconnected experiences of care.
What happens when artists and researchers spend a year in conversation? The result is something you have to see! RSVP for ARx LIVE
ARx LIVE
Thursday, Nov. 12, 2027 from 5:30-8:30 p.m.