COLLABORATORS
Rebecca Rutstein, Artist
Dr. Sony Tuteja, Researcher

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Art and the Sequence of Healing explores how whole genome sequencing is transforming the way doctors diagnose disease and choose medications tailored to an individual.

Whole genome sequencing, or WGS, reads nearly all of a person’s DNA, the biological instructions written in combinations of four chemical letters: A, T, C, and G, in different combinations for a total of 3.2 billion making up our genome. By comparing an individual’s genome with a reference, scientists can identify genetic differences that may influence disease risk or how a person responds to certain medications. The process involves breaking DNA into smaller fragments, reading those pieces, and using powerful computers to reconstruct the sequence. Rebecca Rutstein’s painting draws inspiration from this complex process of fragmentation, pattern recognition, and reassembly.

The work reflects Dr. Sony Tuteja’s research and commitment to making genetic medicine more equitable. Earlier genetic tests often focused on a limited set of markers identified through studies that did not equally represent all populations. Whole genome sequencing offers a more comprehensive approach, creating opportunities for people from a wider range of backgrounds to benefit from advances in precision medicine.

Sony and Rebecca’s collaboration builds on a relationship that spans many years, bringing together scientific expertise and an established understanding of Rebecca’s artistic practice. They met several times to explore Sony’s pharmacogenomics research in greater depth, including a visit to Penn’s Genetic Diagnostic Laboratory, where Sony collaborates with laboratory director Dr. Arupa Ganguly.

Through ongoing conversations and brainstorming, the pair explored how the complex process of whole genome sequencing could be translated into a compelling visual form. Sony also visited Rebecca’s studio to engage more closely with her work and creative process. Their collaboration reflects a shared effort to move between laboratory and studio, using scientific insight and artistic interpretation to make the invisible processes of genomics more tangible and accessible.

ARx PHILADELPHIA
The ARx Philadelphia Cohort of nine researchers and nine artists were paired to create a piece of art based on science over the course of a 10-month collaboration.

For more information:
https://ucitysquare.com/arx/2026-rutstein-tuteja/
https://ucitysquare.com/arx/

Stitch, 60×60, acrylic and spray paint on canvas, 2026