La Jolla Community Celebrates Art and Science at Venter Institute Event

On Friday, September 12, the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) hosted a reception at its La Jolla campus to celebrate the installation of “LIFE FORCE,” an original painting by San Diego-based artist and architect Fred Gemmell. This spectacular piece now hangs prominently in the entry of JCVI’s sustainable laboratory. Nearly 100 community leaders attended this beautiful evening which featured live music, award-winning wine courtesy of Coomber Family Ranch Wines, and delicious sushi from executive chef James Holder of James’ Place, the new restaurant at the La Jolla Playhouse.

JCVI is extremely grateful to Mr. Gemmell for his generous donation to the Institute. His work will serve as a daily inspiration not only to JCVI researchers but also to our community and the many visitors to our building. When asked about his inspiration for the work Mr. Gemmell said, “I try to capture, with complex detail and bold gestures, the amazing diversity and adaptability of life in all its interaction and beauty.” Gemmell employs a unique method of acrylic painting in reverse on museum quality, low-reflective plexiglass.

J. Craig Venter, PhD, JCVI Founder and CEO recognized this generous donation in remarks at the event saying, “Fred is a true visionary, and his art reminds me of how I think about science — abstract yet with bold and intended purpose. His incredible contribution is a testament to Fred’s passion for science and his fascination with the natural world. We couldn’t be more grateful for this addition to our new building.”

JCVI, a global leader in genomic research, has nearly 250 scientists engaged in a variety of important science programs including those focused on better understanding and improving human health and the environment. For more information about our research and how you can support us, please contact our development office at development@jcvi.org.