Drawings Based on Digital Histiopathology Images
This series of large-scale works translates digital histograph photographs of breast cancer cells into layered abstractions, exploring the intersections of science, aesthetics, and lived experience. Focused on types such as triple-negative, HER2-positive, and hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, the pieces challenge viewers to reconsider the visual and emotional dimensions of cancer.
Each drawing begins with abstract watercolor washes, whose fluidity evokes the unpredictability of cancer, layered with precise ink pen renderings of cellular structures. The ink’s meticulous repetition contrasts with the watercolor’s organic forms, creating a tension between control and chaos. This interplay mirrors the emotional terrain of diagnosis and treatment, drawing parallels between fragility and resilience.
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The works, unframed and mounted directly to the wall, invite viewers to engage with their monumental scale and delicate details. Initially encountered as aesthetically compelling abstractions, the realization of their subject matter—cancer cells—disrupts expectations, creating a space of cognitive and emotional tension.
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Through this series, clinical imagery is reframed as both visually arresting and conceptually profound, reflecting the broader mission of Suspended Self. These works foreground the complexity of breast cancer as a physical, emotional, and societal experience, while honoring the shared narratives that inform this project.
"Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells"
Ink, Pencil, Archival Paper
2' x 3'
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Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for about 10-15% of all breast cancers. The term triple-negative breast cancer refers to the fact that the cancer cells don’t have estrogen or progesterone receptors and also don’t make too much of the protein called HER2. (The cells test "negative" on all 3 tests.) These cancers tend to be more common in women younger than age 40, who are African-American, or who have a BRCA1 mutation.
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Triple-negative breast cancer differs from other types of invasive breast cancer in that they grow and spread faster, have limited treatment options, and a worse prognosis (outcome).
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Drawing based on a digital histopathology image of triple negative breast cancer. The staining of the histiochemical with the breast cancer cells gives a pink, red, or purple color.
"Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells"
Ink, Watercolor Archival Paper
4' x 5'
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Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for about 10-15% of all breast cancers. The term triple-negative breast cancer refers to the fact that the cancer cells don’t have estrogen or progesterone receptors and also don’t make too much of the protein called HER2. (The cells test "negative" on all 3 tests.) These cancers tend to be more common in women younger than age 40, who are African-American, or who have a BRCA1 mutation.
​
Triple-negative breast cancer differs from other types of invasive breast cancer in that they grow and spread faster, have limited treatment options, and a worse prognosis (outcome).
​
Drawing based on a digital histopathology image of triple negative breast cancer. The staining of the histiochemical with the breast cancer cells gives a pink, red, or purple color.
Drawing of this piece took 2.5 years.
Detail of "Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells"
Exhibition History of these Pieces
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"Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells" (large and small)
The Other Art Fair presented by Saatchi Art, Dallas TX
April 2024
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"Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells" (large)
Indiana Green Invitational, Roundtree Gallery, Platteville, WI
June 2023