The DNA Bridge

About this artwork

A 60-foot pedestrian bridge railing designed as a double-helix DNA structure, honoring Rochester's world-renowned medical research legacy. LED lighting embedded in the helix activates at night, cycling through the four base-pair colors: blue (adenine), red (thymine), green (cytosine), yellow (guanine).

The Story

Foster collaborated with Mayo Clinic's structural biology team to ensure the helix dimensions are scientifically accurate at 1:100,000,000 scale. The bridge crosses the Zumbro River tributary near the research campus, physically connecting the city to its medical identity.

About the Artist

Scientist-turned-artist and associate professor at Mayo Clinic School of Medicine. Foster creates public works at the intersection of science, medicine, and beauty.

The DNA Bridge

Dr. Amanda Foster

Installed in 2020
Powder-coated steel, integrated RGB LED strips, polycarbonate diffusers
60ft bridge span, 4ft railing height
Zumbro River Bridge, 2nd Ave SW, Pill Hill

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