Growing up, I was mystified by the human body.  It wasn’t until college that I learned that proteins are the little machines keeping us alive.  Since proteins are far too small to see with a normal microscope, I was intrigued by the seeming impossibility of figuring out how they worked.  When I learned that we have the ability to discern their shape and function by using a mixture of tools like X-ray Crystallography, Electron Microscopy, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, I knew I needed to dive deeper into understanding their molecular structures in order to communicate their stories.

To that end, I use a mixture of programs to translate real molecular structures into what you see here. These structures have been determined by scientists and deposited in the Protein Data Bank. By using their structures as the foundation for my art, I can remain faithful to the actual shape and dimensions of the cellular world as I depict these awe-inspiring molecular landscapes.

For inquiries regarding commissioned pieces, contact mph@hughesproteinscience.com.