The afternoon will begin with an in-conversation with artist Abel Holsborough and chef and food writer Melek Erdal, about Abel’s practice, this commission, the connections between Caribbean identity and allotment culture in the UK. Exploring ideas around land, heritage, and food.

Followed by the screening of two short films: The BAFTA award winning short film ‘Our Land,’ directed by Alexandra Genova. The story of two black food growers from London as they search for land to launch their business. Refusing to be held back by barriers of race or class, they are determined to carve their own path in the predominantly white industry. Plus, a documentary filmed and directed by Mark Aitken following a group of East London allotment holders who face losing their plots at the 100 year old Manor Garden Allotments in Hackney Wick as part of the 2012 London Olympic redevelopment plans. A eulogy to a place and it’s people.

To end the afternoon there will be a seed swap facilitated by Wolves Lane Seed Protectors – a group of community growers and educators, who are creating a seed network and resource bank open to all. Seed swapping and reclaiming is important for growers of all scales, from allotment plot holders to farmers. Passing on knowledge and improving access to food. Even if you don’t have growing experience, please do take seeds home and bring some to swap if you have them.

There will be refreshments provided, an opportunity to connect with other local growers, and experience the ‘Small Things Are Possible’ installation as the sun sets.

With thanks to our friends at the London Freedom Seed Bank.

About Abel Holsborough

Abel is an artist who uses photography, writing and performance to explore the un-monumental and question what constitutes ‘useful’ art. Their interest in obscure histories and ‘not-quite’ archives also feeds into their work at Brixton Windmill where they are the lead miller of the last working windmill in London. Their collaborative works with organisations such as Artsadmin (Artist in Residence 2023/24), Grizedale Arts and Create London often link to ideas of home, place-making and community.

@akidinlondon

About Melek Erdal

Melek Erdal is an Alevi Kurdish writer, cook and community activist who grew up in North and East London. Melek juggles work in local government and the public sector as an advocate for interdisciplinary projects exploring culture, history and identity. Her recipes, voice and words have featured in the Guardian, BBC Radio 4 and Vittles, as well as ongoing work with food sustainability charities; Made in Hackney and the Felix Project.

@mels_place_east

About Wolves Lane Seed Protectors

We are Champions of plants and people. We are sharing and inviting knowledge about our seed heritage(s). Seed sovereignty is radical yet innocuous. Local seeds for local peoples.

Image by Abel Holsborough