Seed Artist Profile: Leek & Parsnip by Kara Bender
American Flag Leek and Hollow Crown Parsnip Artwork
Kara Bender was selected to design the artwork for our American Flag leeks seed packet and Hollow Crown Parsnip seed packet.
What is your favorite vegetable to eat and why?
I love fresh spinach, I enjoy cooking, and its versatility makes it easy to include in a variety of dishes.
What is your favorite vegetable to grow and why?
Ichiban eggplants. I like the color of the plants, and they get beautiful purple flowers. They also work well for container gardening and can produce a lot of fruit.
Why did you choose the medium you used for the packet design?
I worked in pen and ink. Its the medium I typically employ. I enjoy working with it because I love the detailed line work it produces, it is also a kind of meditative process that consistently shows the artist’s hand.
Why were you excited about this project?
I enjoy helping and working with the community around me, so it seemed like a good thing to help a local business. Also, most of my work is very large and deals with social justice issues, so drawing small images of pretty flowers for a little while seemed like an interesting break from the norm.
What is your favorite flower and why?
It is hard to decide on a favorite flower, mine is a toss up between calla lilies, poppies and Persian buttercups. The calla lily is simple and clean, while the poppies seem more grounded and nostalgic, and the Persian buttercups have such a beautiful and intricate design that’s hard to ignore. I guess it all depends on my mood at the time. For my favorite everyday flower, anything on a fruit or vegetable plant suits me just fine.
See more of Kara’s work:
|
Article Written by: Angie Lavezzo |
|
About the Author: Angie Lavezzo is the former general manager of Sow True Seed. Beyond her professional role at Sow True, Angie's passion for gardening extends into personal hands-on experience, fostering plants and reaping bountiful harvests. |