The names of the team of scientists who submitted an article on the human chromosome 14 in Nature magazine, February 2003 2003

This is a painted assemblage by Jimmie Durham, supposedly depicting the names of scientists involved in mapping human chromosome 14. It was made around 2003. Looking at it, I can imagine him, moving around the piece, carefully arranging each painted nameplate, each a little world. The surfaces feel so considered, like topographical maps. I love the way Durham uses that slightly distressed wood as a background. It’s not trying to be precious. He’s doing something really interesting with color here too. The names become almost like these abstract shapes, these little blocks of information. It is as if he is suggesting the scientists are not necessarily individuals but units, components of a broader scientific project. It makes me think about other artists—maybe someone like Alighiero Boetti—who are interested in systems and orders. It's a reminder that painting is not just about self-expression; it's about thinking through things, working through ideas, and having a dialogue with the world. And that's what keeps it alive, keeps it relevant, keeps it interesting.