• Sowing Seeds of Creativity: The Seed Packet Artathon

    Artists:
    Sarah Grace Hooper
    John 'Josimo' Paterson
    Mariana Cheniaux
    Caroline Andrieu
    Tereza Životská

    Starting in 2023, we collaborated with Farrago on a vibrant celebration of creativity and botanical art. A project that invited artists from all backgrounds to participate in an "artathon" competition.

    Farrago are a London-based artistic community providing creatives with the tools necessary to ignite their careers through events and much more. Working together, we posed the challenge to create a unique piece of art inspired by the evocative phrase, "a seed contains the promise of a thousand forests." This theme, rich in metaphor and meaning, encouraged artists to explore the boundless potential and beauty encapsulated within a single seed.

    The competition received an overwhelming response, with submissions pouring in from talented artists worldwide. Each entry was a testament to the diverse ways in which botanical art can be interpreted and appreciated. From intricate illustrations capturing the delicate details of plant life to abstract representations embodying the essence of growth and potential, the artworks showcased a stunning array of styles and perspectives. Illustrators, poets, musicians, photographers, painters, they were all there.
    A collection of cyanotypes and collages are displayed in a gallery space.
    A sketch book is left open surrounded by an artist's other works, the book shows to bright wax crayon drawings.
    A large colour illustration of a tomato plant is displayed in a gallery space.
    After careful deliberation, five winners were chosen, each receiving the opportunity to carry out a paid commission to create a limited edition design for one variety in our range of seeds. Chosen at random and planted together with the Farrago and Sowvital teams, the process not only highlighted the artists' skills but also allowed them to explore the intimate connection between the artist and the plant world as their seeds grew.

    The final designs are a celebration of botanical art in its many forms. Each piece, unique in its execution, yet harmoniously tied together by the common theme of growth and potential. five artists, five seeds, five completely different approaches. Five visionary artists allowing their passion and creativity to flow without bounds.
    An artists work is laid out across a desk, with a name card explaining their work.
    A collection of cyanotype prints are displayed on a desk.
    A row of tomato seed packets laid on a desk, with an artists illustration of a tomato plant on the front cover.
    Sowvital has always been dedicated to pushing the boundaries of plant world creativity. Working alongside Farrago to weave this ethos into the competition, we not only provided a platform for artists to showcase their talents but also encouraged them to explore and experiment with botanical themes in innovative ways. The resulting seed packet designs are not just functional items; they are works of art that inspire and educate, reminding us of the beauty and promise inherent in every seed.

    This project has underscored the importance of botanical art in our understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Through the lens of art, the intricate and often overlooked details of plant life are brought to the forefront, allowing us to see and celebrate the extraordinary in the ordinary. While also celebrating the importance of the innate connection we humans have with the natural world, and how actively engaging with it can bring inspiration, joy, gratitude, and more.
    A row of rocket seed packets are seen with an intricate black and white illustration on the cover.
    A collection of an artist's digital illustrations are laid out on a desk.
    A collection of cyanotypes are displayed on a desk in a gallery space.
    As the winning designs make their way into the hands of gardeners and plant enthusiasts, they carry with them a story of creativity, growth, and the unending potential of a single seed. Sowvital's commitment to fostering such creativity ensures that the promise of a thousand forests continues to inspire and flourish, one seed packet at a time.

    A huge, heartfelt thank you to all involved.
    A table filled with Sowvital seed packets and seed grow kits.
    Artist Details
    Sarah Grace Hooper -
    sarahgracephoto@hotmail.com
    @sarahgshotme
    www.sarahgracephotography.net


    John 'Josimo' Paterson -
    studiojosimo@yahoo.com
    @studiojosimo
    www.studiojosimo.com

    Mariana Cheniaux -
    marianacheniaux@gmail.com
    @marianacheniaux
    www.marianacheniaux.com


    Caroline Andrieu -
    caroline.untitled@gmail.com
    @wasteland
    www.carolineandrieu.com


    Tereza Životská -
    ter.zivotska@gmail.com
    @tercik24_art