Seed Stories: An Exhibition And Celebration Of India’s Indigenous Seed Diversity Begins In Pune
Seed Stories: An Exhibition And Celebration Of India's Indigenous Seed Diversity Begins In Pune
In the beginning, there was gathering and hunting, but then mankind invented agriculture and sedentarization, and with them came civilizations and the infinite variety of their cultural expressions. Since then, mythological tales, stories, poems, songs, and pictorial representations of all kinds have been entwined around the seeds that are vital for daily bread.
The Seed Stories project, developed and implemented at the Goethe-Institut Pune, is an initiative that invites artists, scientists, and seed collectors to explore and rediscover the cultural and ecological significance of India’s indigenous seed diversity. For seeds are still more than just a commodity – they are a living symbol of culture, resilience, and hope. The aim of the project is to rediscover and bring together these diverse and rich stories that have been associated with seeds over the centuries and are reflected in diverse cultural forms of expression. The historical experience of the increasing control, capitalization, and monopolization of seeds is juxtaposed with the narrative of the seed that sprouts and breaks through the asphalt as it grows.
In collaboration with the Goethe-Institut Pune, Seed Stories is curated by Abhijit Patil, a photographer and seed collector whose agrarian background continues to inspire his artistic work to this day. He is currently researching and developing the Seed Stories Library in Maharashtra (India) together with local organizations. The aim of the Seed Stories Library is to promote seed diversity and recover its identity-forming stories.
Seed Stories Exhibition
The exhibition, which will take place from 1 to 11 March 2025, will showcase various forms of artistic expression, including paintings, sculptures, photography, design, poetry, dance, and seed exhibitions. In addition, lectures and workshops will be held to deepen and reflect on our understanding of the profound connections between seeds and culture. The exhibition is graciously hosted at The Monalisa Kalagram, a vibrant cultural space set amidst the serene surroundings of Pingale Farms in Pune.
Participating Artists
Aabha Soumitra, Abhijit Patil, Debangshu Moulik, Jayraj Patil, Jignesh Mistry, Ketaki Nirmala, Kokila Bhattacharya, Philipp Geist, Rajita Schade, Rajyashri Goody, Rupali Patil, Sachin Mali, Sayli Kulkarni, Seetai Creations, Sheena Maria Piedade, Shital Sathe, Shruthi Vishwanath, Shweta Bhattad, Vaishali Oak, Yana Wernicke.
Location
The Monalisa Kalagram
Pingale Farms, South Main Rd, Pune 411001
