The artist Cruschiform explores the astonishing creativity of nature through his exhibition “Seeds, a prodigious odyssey”. Between science and poetry, the author-illustrator invites us to discover the beauty of seeds. Meet in the heart of the Cévennes, at Maison Rouge.
At Maison Rouge, author-illustrator Cruschiform invites spectators to discover the fascinating world of seeds in an exhibition entitled Seeds, a prodigious odyssey. Passionate about plant diversity, Cruschiform (aka Marie-Laure Cruschi) explores the links between form and function in the process of seed dispersal through her illustrations.
“Each seed contains within itself the story of an extraordinary journey”
This exhibition, the result of an artistic residency carried out in spring 2024, is a true hymn to biodiversity. It brings together more than a hundred local seeds, some of which were collected and illustrated by the artist during his stay at Maison Rouge. Through a journey rich in more than 60 large-format illustrations, the exhibition is a true invitation to travel. A journey to the heart of the plant world, a journey that is both poetic and educational.
From the age of 15, Cruschiform moved towards the Applied Arts sector taught in Nîmes. © Chloé Vollmer-Lo for Gallimard
“I am interested in the art of the wandering of seeds at the time of their dispersion,” confides the artist. And Cruschiform adds: “Whether with the wind, with the flow of water or with the complicity of animals, all strategies are good for conquering new territories […] Each seed contains within itself the story of an extraordinary journey where the creativity of nature reigns supreme.”
A poetic and educational exhibition
Trained in Applied Arts in Nîmes and at the École Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, Cruschiform is not new to this! Her visual universe, contemporary and refined, has propelled her onto the international scene, while remaining deeply anchored in the landscapes of her Cévennes childhood.
Beyond the artistic aspect, the exhibition, as we said, also has an educational aim. Cruschiform was indeed surrounded by various audiences during its residency, from children to seniors, including students from the Lycée hôtelier Marie Curie and residents of ESAT.
The exhibition can be viewed at Maison Rouge – Museum of the Cévennes Valleys. © Red House
Supported by the Gard Departmental Council and the DRAC Occitanie, this project is also supported by the Nîmes s'Illustre festival, which promotes emerging and established artists each year through events throughout Gard.
The exhibition Seeds, a prodigious odyssey can be discovered until January 5.
-> Practical information: Maison Rouge – Cévennes Valleys Museum, 5 rue de l'Industrie – pedestrian entrance 35 Grand'rue – car park 30270 Saint-Jean-du-Gard. Tel: 04 66 85 10 48. Opening hours. From October 5 to October 31: every day from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. From November 1 to January 5: Wednesday to Sunday, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
