Have you ever wondered what the retinal images of your eyes would look like printed on cotton? Perhaps a watercolor version of a breast cancer cell? Or DNA on fused glass?
These are three of the 29 works of art on display through January 2025 at the Flinn Foundation in Phoenix through a partnership with the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance.
“From Micro to Macro” is an evocative bioscience-themed exhibit delving into the connection between art and health care. The works, on display in the Foundation’s lobby and conference center, explore themes of scientific discovery, research, exploration, illness, recovery, and the transformative power of creative expression.
View the “From Micro to Macro” exhibit in this online gallery.
Among the works:
- Never Letting You Go (Human Fat Cells) by Memory Bradley, wool, silk fabrics and mounted on canvas
Memory Bradley is a sculptor fascinated with integrating natural fibers, clay, paper mache, fabric, and foraged items into 2- and 3-dimensional works. Inspired to create joyful and whimsical moments from the natural and fantasy worlds, Bradley creates pieces that remind us of the hope and joy that surrounds us. Bradley explores colors and textures that create a visual and tactile experience. Utilizing complex fiber arts and sculptural techniques, Bradley creates art that pushes the boundaries of these mediums without sacrificing the optimism she highlights in her work. - Remnants of a Biology Major by Isabel Brethour, mixed media fiber arts
As someone born and raised in Arizona, Isabel Brethour has always loved the desert and the animals that dwell in it. “This love impacted me to the point that I pursued a biology degree for four years at Mesa Community College.” Brethour said. After coming just short of obtaining a degree, Brethour decided to switch to an art major. Brethour is now a third-generation artist. Much of the work is centered on Arizona nature and biology, as well as “reconnecting to my heritage and expressing my identity as a queer, quarter-Hispanic person.” - Histology Radiance by Victor Navarro, acrylic on canvas
Venturing into the artistic lifestyle at age of 15, Navarro began his art career as an exhibiting artist in Tucson and soon after expanded his career to an international level. He has a bachelor of fine arts degree from the University of Arizona, and received a master’s degree from Northern Arizona University, and a master’s in business administration from the University of Dubuque. Navarro seized art teaching opportunities at various institutions, including Pima Community College.
The Flinn Foundation launched its art series with two exhibitions in 2022, displaying artwork from Arizona artists in its lobby, conference center, and courtyard.
This is the second installation featuring a partnership between the Flinn Foundation and SAACA. The first, Uncommon Knowledge, featured Roche Tissue Diagnostics employees who received a diagnosis including cancer, leukemia, human papillomavirus, and diabetes. The exhibition highlighted the value of regular disease screenings and patient self-advocacy.
The Flinn Foundation, a privately endowed, philanthropic grantmaking organization in Phoenix, has financially supported Arizona arts organizations for about four decades. Today, the foundation supports the state’s largest arts organizations as well as smaller, primarily rural arts groups.
In addition to arts and culture, the foundation awards grants and operates programs to support the biosciences, including administering Arizona’s Bioscience Roadmap, as well as the Flinn Scholarship and Arizona Center for Civic Leadership.
SAACA is a Tucson-based nonprofit organization dedicated to the creation, preservation, and advancement of the arts, strengthening the bonds between people, place and purpose through collaborative, arts-driven experiences.
To schedule a visit to the Flinn Foundation gallery, email [email protected].
To purchase artwork from the gallery, contact Amanda Staples at [email protected].
View Online Gallery