2024 Neuroscience Art Contest

This piece depicts a dandelion where the tufts are neurons. The number of neurons (and brain cells in general) that we get in life is limited. This is a commentary on the beautiful fragility that exists in life. Our time on earth is limited, and we need to make the best of it. The goal isn’t to keep the flower together, but to spread the seeds in meaningful ways. Our neurons will die anyway, so we need to make the most of our fleeting time.

The concept of a cerebral soul calls my attention to Michaelangelo fresca, “The Creation of Adam.” There we see God imparting unto Adam life (soul) which is what I tried to capture by focusing on their hands. Doctrine and Covenants 11:13 says, “... I will impart unto you my spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy.” The brain is the receptacle of thoughts and inspiration and as such cannot be separated from the creator which animates it.

This artwork portrays the brain as a bridge between physical and spiritual realms. acknowledging that while the science behind the connection of brain and soul may remain elusive, its significance is undeniable. Butterflies symbolize transformation and new beginnings and are included to show the miraculous transition between merely existing as with a physical body and truly living as a conscious individual. Their presence conveys they intertwining of mind, body, and soul, reflecting on the profound unity and birth and inevitable separation at death.

The Doctrine and Covenants depict the essence of the “soul of man” as a fusion of both “the spirit” and “the body.” (D&C 88:15). The wood burning of the brain’s anatomy symbolizes “the body,” representing the mortal, physical aspects. The white shading outlining the brain symbolizes “the spirit,” illustrated as “pure” and “fine” matter discernible only by “purer eyes” (D&C 131:7). This symbolism extends further as the bark of the wood signifies the flesh, while the commonly unseen wood core represents the spirit. The tree rings symbolize eternity, signifying the harmonious eternal reunion of spirit and body at the resurrection. Overall, the cerebral soul is the culmination of the living experience, involving both cognitive functions performed by the brain and the intangible presence of the spirit.

My piece shows a person walking in a beautiful landscape, highlighting their brain & nervous system. This piece represents the miracle of our minds. As I’ve studied neuroscience, I have been amazed how the movement of my body, my personality and traits, my sight, hearing, taste and smell, my friendships, my memories, my concepts of beauty and art and love are all facilitated by the mere opening and closing of ion channels (among other things). It’s awe-inspiring.