“Citizen Seeds,” ever heard of it? This public art project by Kim Abeles is more than just a sculpture. It’s an invitation to slow down and connect with nature right here in urban Los Angeles.
Citizen Seeds comprises six sculptures. Each represents a plant native to Southern California. You will find Sugar Pine, California Black Oak, Coast Live Oak, Bladderpod, Black Walnut, and Manzanita. These aren’t just any sculptures. The sizes range from six to eight feet.
Abeles designed Citizen Seeds to be meeting places for trail users. Each seed appears split open. Inside, you will find a map and other design elements. The maps are bronze. Each indicates the sculpture’s location on the trail and includes the word “Here”. So, Citizen Seeds are wayfinding objects.
“Here” invites you to pause. Take in the power of nature amid urban Los Angeles. Abeles incorporates cityscape horizons into her projects. She encourages us to see with fresh eyes. Walking helps. Abeles says there is no beginning or end, rather, a journey’s continuum.
Each Citizen Seeds sculpture is unique. The interiors speak to personal growth and shared journeys. They reflect our relationship with nature. At Kenneth Hahn Park, concrete medallions surround the Bladderpod seed. Community members designed these medallions in a workshop led by Abeles. They are symbols of growth and journey. Their names are on a plaque.
Near the La Cienega Pedestrian Bridge, you will find the California Black Oak seed. Disks of local animal and bird tracks encircle it. Squirrels, red-tail hawks, and coyotes left their marks. A concrete relief blueprint of the Stoneview Nature Center represents human tracks.
Kim Abeles’ Citizen Seeds serves many purposes. It’s practical as a meeting place. It helps with wayfinding. It provides mapping. Aesthetically, the seeds are gorgeous. The interiors are especially beautiful. It imparts knowledge about Southern California native flora and fauna and community values. It encourages reflection and mindfulness.
Citizen Seeds reminds us to slow down and be present. Creating memories. Respecting human life. Being in the now are essential to a joyful life. Interacting with Citizen Seeds inspires us. Walking in nature and greeting others can make your day meaningful. What simple act gives you joy?