Steve Gschmeissner is a renowned scanning electron microscopist, celebrated for his stunning and scientifically significant images.
His journey began at the Royal College of Surgeons, where he trained as an electron microscopist. He later worked at Cancer Research UK, where his deep understanding of scientific principles greatly influenced his artistic approach.
IN THE LATE 1990S
Gschmeissner began using Photoshop to colour his images, creating an extraordinary collection of over 3000 pictures. His subjects range from diatoms and cancer cells to new materials. His work has been published globally in various media, including books, magazines, TV, advertising, and record covers.
A COLLABORATION WITH PETER GABRIEL
1996 brought Gschmeissner's striking micrographic imagery together with Gabriel’s visual universe. Gschmeissner's highly detailed images were incorporated into album covers and promotional posters for Gabriel’s projects
Damien Hirst's Biopsy Paintings series featured large-scale, vibrant works that depict the intricate details of diseased human organs and tissues, inspired by medical imagery and scientific photographs. Gschmeissner's microscopic photographs of cancer cells provided Hirst with a unique visual foundation, allowing him to transform these scientific images into thought-provoking art pieces. The series not only highlights the intersection of art and science but also brings a deeper awareness to the complexities of human biology and the impact of diseases on the body.
Gschmeissner's images have won him numerous prestigious accolades. In 2021 he received the Lennart Nilsson Award for his 'creative and ingenious efforts that enabled new scientific breakthroughs and opened new windows for observations of life'.
His ability to combine scientific knowledge with a strong visual awareness allows him to create the breath-taking images for which he has become renowned.
