The exhibition ‘How like a leaf I am’ by Alexandra Baumgartner invites visitors to reflect on the deep connections between humans and plants. The exhibition focuses on the crucial issue of preserving seeds as a common good amidst the growing loss of agrobiodiversity. By combining photography and interactive elements, the exhibition fosters an emotional connection to the plant world, highlighting the key role of seeds.

Baumgartner explores seeds as cultural heritage—a resource shaped and handed down through generations by both human and non-human influences. Observing, selecting, nurturing, protecting, tasting, sorting, storing, exchanging and reseeding are the driving forces behind the diversity of cultivated plants. Oscillating between intensive research and introspective observation, ‘How like a leaf I am’ portrays gestures of resistance against the ongoing loss of seed diversity. Baumgartner wanders through the gardens of private seed keepers and visits state and community-run seed banks.

In close collaboration with the collective Seed Carriers, which brings attention to civil society efforts to preserve cultivated diversity and shares the stories of seeds, the exhibition encourages reflection and dialogue on the challenges arising from the interconnected climate and biodiversity crises. Baumgartner’s work offers new perspectives on the relationship between humans and nature, urging us to reconsider our responsibility for the potential within these connections.

About the artist

Alexandra Baumgartner (*1991 in Zurich, lives in Biel/Bienne) is a multidisciplinary artist who combines photography, sound and participatory formats. In her artistic practice, she combines documentary and artistic approaches to explore socially relevant themes. As co-founder of the transdisciplinary project SEED CARRIERS, she encourages dialogue between art, science and society.

Side Programming “Experiencing the Planthroposcene”

Intervention Botanical Garden Bern
15.08. – 24.11
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Tasting session with Aterraterra (IT)
19 Sep. 18:30 – 21:00
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Guided tour with Adrian Möhl, Botanic Garden Bern
14 Nov. 17:30 – 18:30
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The exhibition and the accompanying programme were made possible with the support of the Pro Helvetia Cultural Foundation, Migros Culture Percentage, Burgergemeinde Bern and the Dr. Georg and Josi Guggenheim Foundation. Many thanks to Gautschi Editionen