Bunching Onion Seed Packet Art

Melanie Van Houten of Sarasota, Florida was selected to design the artwork for the Long White Bunching Onion.

What is your favorite vegetable to eat and why?

This is a tough one for me! I love vegetables. In fact, I can’t think of one that I don’t like. Top of the list I guess would have to be brussel sprouts. Cabbage is a close second, and, being a southern girl, you can always win me over with an ear of corn!

What is your favorite vegetable to grow and why?

Honestly, I am not so good at growing things, so I stick to easy stuff. I had some good success last year with growing eggplant. I was proud of myself! Can I add that to my favorite’s list?

Why did you choose the medium you used for the packet design?

Watercolor is my favorite medium, and the one that I work with most. I couldn’t shake the vision of those white and green onions on a background of hot pink . . . so I decided to go with it. I love how it came out.

What is your favorite medium to work with and why?

Watercolor is what I feel I am best at, I’ve been at it for a long time. I like it’s playful qualities. It has a mind of it’s own and can really surprise you. I don’t think you can ever ‘master’ it, it’s always a challenge. Recently, I have been playing around with mixed media techniques combining watercolor with collage, acrylics and stamps. It’s been delightful and is my current favorite.

Why were you excited about this project?

I love vegetables. I love watercolor.I love small businesses. I love North Carolina (my home state). And I love a good challenge. This project combined all of those things – what’s not to get excited about?!

What is your favorite flower and why?

You ask hard questions! I would have to say the Moonflower. It’s magical. I love that it opens in the evening, spreading it’s intoxicating fragrance into the air for all of us night owls.

Do you have anything else you want to share with potential customers?

I love creating art that tells a story, and I believe that each creation is a part of my story. I love sharing my love for painting and art, and hope to connect with like souls, so I hope you’ll have a look at my website or connect with me on Facebook/ Instagram. I love company! God bless and bloom true!