When you step into Rushan Nasretdin’s art studio in the picturesque town of Järvenpää, Finland, you’re greeted not by the familiar sight of paint tubes, brushes, and canvases, but by an enchanting collection of birch bark, branches, and stones. The air is infused with a fresh, woodsy scent that instantly brings a sense of calm, almost as if you’ve wandered into the heart of the forest itself.
Nasretdin, the visionary behind Seed Art Studio, is redefining the concept of art supplies. Her materials are not sourced from a traditional store but are gathered directly from the rich Finnish forests and archipelago. At Seed Art Studio, a unique space where English is the medium of instruction, Nasretdin leads immersive workshops that celebrate the beauty of natural inks crafted from locally available materials.
Her creative process often breathes new life into what others might view as waste—decomposing flowers, obsolete library books, and outdated musical scores all find a new purpose within her colorful creations.
### Embracing Nature’s Cadence
A captivating aspect of Nasretdin’s approach lies in its connection to the natural world. What began as a therapeutic escape during the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved into a profound artistic endeavor. Daily, she would venture into the forest, taking two-hour walks that allowed her to observe and absorb the natural beauty around her. It was during these explorations that she began experimenting with natural materials to develop her unique inks.
“For me, the forest offers a childlike wonder,” she reflects, recalling the joy and discovery found in nature’s bounty.
While Finland’s “everyman’s right” grants citizens the freedom to roam and gather certain natural products—berries and mushrooms, for instance—it imposes restrictions on collecting most materials like wood and bark, which require permission or are protected by local laws. Nasretdin adeptly navigates these rules, foraging from spring to autumn and working with her collected treasures throughout the winter months.
“It’s a blessing to have access to nature here,” she states warmly. “And I feel a real sense of reciprocity. Nature continuously gives, but it’s essential to contemplate how we can give back—be it through gratitude or teaching our children to respect the forest.”
### Fostering Curiosity Over Craft
What began as a solitary pursuit has blossomed into an integral part of Nasretdin’s work. In her workshops, she takes a step back, allowing participants the freedom to explore and express themselves without the constraints of guided instruction or the pressure for perfect outcomes. Even the youngest artists—some just two or three years old—are encouraged to discover how different inks interact on paper.
“I recall one boy who was thoroughly absorbed for a solid hour, a little scientist-artist amazed by his own creations,” Nasretdin reminisces. “It’s these moments that fuel my passion.”
Unlike conventional paints, natural inks introduce a delightful unpredictability. For instance, ink made from poinsettia bracts starts as a vibrant red but gradually transforms into a muted greenish-grey reminiscent of the Baltic Sea.
“There’s a sense of freedom in working with natural materials. It invites mistakes and experimentation, creating a collaborative art experience with nature that fosters curiosity and joy,” she explains.
Recently, a group of participants aged nine to 17 created stunning oak leaf mobiles. Using leaves cut from recycled paper, they painted them with inks derived from acorn caps, rust water, alder cones, and birch leaves, all strung together with pinecones.
### Reconnecting with Nature
Nasretdin also extends her expertise to adult workshops, incorporating natural ink into business conferences and wellness retreats. “Interacting with nature’s elements is a beautiful way to reset and reconnect amidst the chaos of daily life.”
For Nasretdin, the goal transcends mere art making. It’s about nurturing a deeper relationship between people—especially children—and the forest, fostering a sense of respect for the environment.
“I envision a future where young children grow up with a profound appreciation for forests, recognizing the magic that resides within them,” she expresses passionately.
Written by Kelly Duval; photographs by Emilia Kangasluoma, August 2026.