Rachel
von Roeschlaub is an artist living in Cambridge,
Massachussets. She received a BA in Chemistry from
the University of Montana and an M.S. in
Organic Chemistry from the University of Oregon. Subsequently she worked
as a molecular biologist at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York,
where she participated in cancer research and managed the genome facility.
Ms. von Roeschlaub also taught hands-on science workshops in genetics and
biotechnology to high school students and teachers. As a part of her efforts
in science education she traveled to monasteries and schools in India to
introduce Tibetan monks, students and high school teachers to modern biotechnology.
In 2005, Ms. von Roeschlaub left science to pursue a career in art. Her
acrylic paintings with whimsical, scientific themes have appeared as cover
art for scientific magazines and journals, have been exhibited at art galleries
in New York and Boston, and displayed at the American Association of Arts
and Science in Washington D.C. Her private commissions include paintings
for Dr. James Watson, Mike Mills, bass guitarist for R.E.M., and a mural
for the entry into the recently completed Harvard University Bio Labs.
Artist Statement
Many of my pieces have biological themes that
originate from my work in molecular biology.
My pointillist technique allows reductive and
primitive shapes to emerge with depth and figure.
Basic shapes with a myriad of points, create
lively creatures and engaging patterns. Most
of my subject matter is lighthearted and whimsical
to convey optimism, quirkiness and humor. However,
keeping my intentions under the surface, each
piece is a journey to accommodate the poles of
my intellectual, experiential and spiritual existence;
a gentle and intuitive fusion of my scientific
and spiritual identities.
