Director of the Mendel Museum of the Masaryk University Ondřej Dostál will lecture on the work and contributions of the genius scientist and founder of modern genetics Gregor Mendel at the Embassy of the Czech Republic on September 27, 2017, at 6 pm. His reflections will be followed by a concert documentary screening of Mendel: the Legacy, a recorded video-mapping multimedia extravaganza originally projected on the Augustinian Abbey, where Mendel conducted his research. The video features animation by Emmy and BAFTA winning animator Drew Berry accompanied by a full-orchestral score by composer Duncan Hendy.

Background:

Gregor Mendel presented his groundbreaking conclusions in plant hybridization to the scientific community in 1865; yet, no one in the audience grasped the significance of his findings. Undeterred, Mendel maintained up to his death that, “it will not be long before the whole world acknowledges the results of my work.” Sure enough, three botanists, working independently on similar experiments and applying mathematical analysis, stumbled upon his work and landmark principles in 1900. Mendel: The Legacy was created in 2015 to commemorate the 150 years since his research was rediscovered.

Film screening courtesy of Mendel Museum at Masaryk University in Brno

Event Details:

Date: September 27, 2017, 6 pm

Attire: Business

Location: Embassy of the Czech Republic
3900 Spring of Freedom St, NW, Washington, DC 20008

RSVP by September 26
Admission is free; however, RSVPs are required.

Embassy policy: No bags or suitcases allowed. Only small purses permitted but will be checked at the door. No coat check available. You must pass through security for entrance. RSVP confirmation and photo ID required. Doors close at 6:15 pm.

Parking: Non-metered parking is available on Spring of Freedom Street and Tilden Street.

Closest Metro: The Embassy is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Van Ness Metro Station.