When we first conceived of the theme of this issue, SEEDS, in 2018, no one could have predicted that its creation would be accompanied by this past year’s rush of pandemic-inspired interest in planting seeds of one’s own. In times of uncertainty our ancestors have also turned to seeds—stowing them away with the hope of seeking out new, more fertile ground. A seed is an ark of intelligence that contains all the information and resources it needs to flourish. This issue honors the seed keepers of the past and the present, and their seeds. 

This issue includes an interview with the great activist and author, Dr. Vandana Shiva, a feature about the importance of the Shakers and spiritual design, photography by Amy Li, Maggie Shannon, David Brandon Geeting and studio Romain Lenancker, and contributions from chefs including Selassie Atadika (Midunu), DeVonn Francis (Yardy), Angela Dimayuga (NYTimes contributor), Lexie Smith (Bread on Earth), designers Saxton Randolph, Ladies and Gentlemen studio, Chiaozza, Mae-ling Lokko, and seed stewards Vivien Sansour (Palestinian Heirloom Seed Library), farmer Kristyn Leach and educator Owen Taylor.

152 pages + special cover spread featuring photography from Studio Romain Lenancker.