THE SEED COLLECTOR
Title - The Seed Collector
Description - Handmade watercolour, including Afghan Lapis Lazuli and malachite, 24k shell gold on handmade Indian wasli paper
Price - Available on enquiry, please kindly get in touch via the contact page
The Seed Collector draws inspiration from the Millennium Seed Bank's mission to collect and preserve millions of seeds from around the world. This global initiative strives to safeguard plant life for our future generations. Mobeen's piece visually translates this endeavour, by transforming the Seed Bank into a majestic "Tree of Life." Mobeen's work is both a personal response and reflection on her visit to the seed bank nestled in an underground vault, where she engaged with seed collectors who dedicate their lives to this vital task. All seed collectors first recognize the immense value of the natural world, appreciating its gifts before they begin their work of preservation. Through her work, Mobeen channels the passion, purpose, and reverence for nature that drives each seed collector.
At the heart of the piece is a vast tree adorned with clusters of leaves, each representing a unique species, the tree being a reflection of the Seed Bank highlights the diversity of life it preserves, becoming a sanctuary, where seeds are protected, ensuring the survival of plant life for generations to come.
At the base of this magnificent tree, a vibrant garden unfolds, teeming with life. The presence of a seed collector is subtly suggested, through scattered tools, delicate glass jars, and a meticulously crafted table, reminiscent of traditional Persian artistry, where precious seeds are carefully arranged for storage. Mobeen’s distinctive style of painting, influenced by Persian and Indian miniature art, is evident in the fine lines, vibrant colours, and countless layers of paint. Her painting technique mirrors the meticulous and purposeful process of seed collection and preservation.
Through this piece, Mobeen invites us to reflect on the idea that there is a seed collector in all of us. Just as seed collectors preserve physical life, we too are called to pass on seeds of wisdom, love, strength, unity, and more. These metaphorical seeds ground us, connecting us to one another and to something greater than the tangible world. Like natural seeds, spiritual and virtuous ones require fertile hearts to take root and grow. Mobeen’s work honours the quiet strength of those who protect life and asks us to consider what ideas, beliefs, or virtues do you think are worth protecting and nurturing for future generations?
