Glass Microbiology

For today's presentation, we have artist Luke Jerram, from  Bristol, UK.

Mr. Jerram is a remarkable fellow, and phenomenal artist. Here's why:
       (via Artist-A-Day) 

About the artist:

Luke Jerram’s multidisciplinary practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations, live arts projects and gifts. Since his professional career as an artist began in 1997 Luke has created a number of extraordinary art projects which excite and inspire people around him.

The above picture is a glass-blown model of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, commonly known as HIV. HIV/AIDS directly affects the lives of over 1 million Americans, and approximately 33 million people on the planet; indirectly, it affects the lives of many millions more.

About Glass Microbiology: 

These transparent glass sculptures were created to contemplate the global impact of each disease and to consider how the artificial colouring of scientific imagery affects our understanding of phenomena. Jerram is exploring the tension between the artworks’ beauty and what they represent, their impact on humanity.

The sculptures were designed in consultation with virologists from the University of Bristol using a combination of different scientific photographs and models; they were made in collaboration with master glassblowers.

you can find Luke's website, and learn all about glass microbiology,  here.

So what does HIV look like? Here's a picture of a typical HIV retrovirus cell:

 Let's all use protection with our partners. It's really not that hard.



Hey, that big glass HIV looks just like this microscopic HIV! Neat-o, gang!



Seriously, for a minute. HIV is a big deal. It has become a social reality, but it is one that need not be. And it is up to everyone to make sure that these humbling numbers don't increase.

For everything you could ever want to know about HIV, click here. For the Wikipedia article, click <----there.

If you're not sure what I'm even talking about or maybe just want to brush up on your STD awareness, here's Top 10 HIV/AIDS Myths, to get you started.

Here's an interactive map from the folks at MSNBC:

The point is that, ultimately, the choice is in YOUR hands:

Wear protection. Get tested. Be safe. 

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Well, since that was all majorly depressing stuff,
I'm going to leave you today with this sickeningly cute video of a frolicsome baby elk.

I guess that's all for today.

wildcoyote