The Double Helix

  • Anna Afzal-Gould

The genesis of the Violet’s Garden collection, ‘The Double Helix’ portrays the beginning of Violet’s rare genetic condition. The double helix is the basis for life. Both plants and animals share the same structure of the double helix, showing the interconnectedness of nature. Our DNA can impact the way that we look, but also the way that we function. There are times when mutations occur, leading to variations in DNA that can impact an individual in various ways. Thanks to science, many genetic conditions have been discovered that are caused by these mutations. This piece aims to highlight some of the diversity that unique genetic code causes, from the appearance of flowers to the function of bees as workers, drones, or queens. .MP4 - 2048x2048 px 27-second duration Violet’s Garden This collection is a series of animated hand-drawn digital sketches. It intends to bring awareness to the artist’s 3-year-old daughter’s rare genetic condition: HNRNPH2 mutation, which she was diagnosed with in November 2021. This condition means that Violet has a global developmental delay, severe learning difficulties, is nonverbal and nonmobile and has early signs of autism. The genetic mutation was discovered in 2016 by Dr Bain, and there are only 130 or so known cases of it worldwide. Although it impacts each individual in varying ways, there are some common challenges faced by those diagnosed. This series focuses specifically on Violet’s experiences. Animation can be viewed at: https://knownorigin.io/gallery/12233000-the-double-helix