Rosalind Franklin: Portrait to be unveiled to celebrate pioneering DNA chemist

The artwork being unveiled next week depicts Rosalind surrounded by formations of DNA, which she was instrumental in discovering

Rosalind Franklin

A bronze portrait of Rosalind Franklin, the pioneering Jewish DNA chemist, will be unveiled to celebrate International Women’s Month.

The tondo – a round artwork – depicts Rosalind surrounded by the formations of DNA, which she was instrumental in discovering, and will be unveiled at Hampstead Manor on March 15.

It will become a permanent feature outside of the former Westfield College at Hampstead Manor, which was founded by women for higher education of women and where Rosalind was a research associate.

“Rosalind Franklin paved the way for women in science, but like many women at the time she didn’t get the recognition she deserved,” said Lisa Ravencroft, of Mount Anvil, which commissioned the artwork. 

“So, I am thrilled to be unveiling the tondo which will be positioned proudly on the building named after her at Hampstead Manor in her honour during International Women’s Month.”

Keziah Burt, the artist, added she hoped it would “inspire others to walk in her footsteps.”

The artwork will be virtually unveiled on March 15, between 3pm to 4pm, which will be followed by a discussion entitled: ‘How Rosalind paved the way for women in science, and why we need more women in STEAM.’

Panellists include Tulip Siddiq MP and Baroness Garden of Frognal among others. To RSVP or ask a question of the panel, email rsvp@hampsteadmanor.com.

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