About

As a medical student preparing to embark on a career in general surgery, I am driven by a deep-seated passion for understanding the intricacies of the human body and the transformative power of medicine. My background in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the miracles that occur within the human body at a cellular level. This fascination has merged with my artistic side, resulting in a distinctive approach that marries science and art. I've chosen the vibrant style of pop art to convey the excitement and potential of regenerative medicine. The use of bold, vivid colors and iconic imagery in my art serves as a bridge between scientific innovation and artistic expression, showing that even the microscopic world is a canvas for creativity and hope.

My interest in stem cells lie in their innovation as a new frontier of science. During my time as a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine at the University of Southern California, I was awarded a grant to combine my love of art with my interest in stem cell biology. My six-part series reimagined textbook and scientific microscopy photos as bold paintings.

This work was enthusiastically received and featured in the University newsletter and two gallery shows. One painting, “The Astrocyte” was featured in a neuroscience-themed show in the Hoyt Gallery. The full series was featured in my first solo-show at the USC Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience. The series was donated to the Eli and Edythe Broad CIRM Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research at USC to inspire future students.

The follow up project to this series featured the cells of the immune system as abstract works, bringing an artistic dimension to an otherwise abstract concept. Both series have gone on to be printed series and hung in clinic offices, laboratories, and homes. Additionally, many of my diagrams and illustrations have been commissioned and published in scientific journals and featured as cover art.

As I continue my medical education and prepare to enter the field of general surgery, my passion for both science and art remains unwavering, forging a powerful connection between healing and artistic expression.

Kella

 Interested in learning more about my original Stem Cell Project? Check out these articles: