As part of Transformation Studies, Phase 2 Compression consists of a series of photomedia works that use fine art and design as mechanisms to visualise the transformative process of cellular development and reprogramming. Documenting the successful transformation of the artist’s blood cells into two induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSCs) lines SK1 and SK2 in April 2022, the series reveals various stages of cellular change, including the formation of embryoid bodies, fluorescent microscopy images of partially differentiated cell cultures, and the development of pericytes—cells that grow along capillaries and regulate blood flow.

This series connects to the artist's exploration of an alternative genetic legacy through the creation of unique cell lines for both artistic and scientific research. The development of transforming SK2 iPSCs into pericytes expands the project’s scope, serving not only as further "cell babies" for the artist’s legacy but also as a valuable stock cell line for Alzheimer’s, stroke, and Multiple Sclerosis research conducted by Associate Professor Brad Sutherland’s team within the Sutherland Stroke Research Group at the University of Tasmania (UTAS). By blending fine art and design strategies, Phase 2 Compression offers an interdisciplinary approach to visualising cellular transformation, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific precision and artistic expression.

This work was developed with A/Prof. Brad Sutherland and Dr Jo-Maree Courtney from the UTAS School of Medicine and formed part of the collaborative Transformation Studies exhibition at Moonah Art Centre in 2023.