Sunday, August 4, 2024

Let's Explore Food As a Social Construct: Beginning the Conversation









Junipers Garden, Brandywine MD, Oasis in the Woods, June 2023.











Hey there! Let's chat about the social aspect of food. I often bring this up when seeking funding for community engagement events at the museums and galleries I'm involved with.

 According to research, sharing food fosters positive feelings such as trust, empathy, and camaraderie among individuals. This is because eating is a primal need that evokes feelings of safety and comfort. When shared with others, it reinforces the idea of social support and belongingness.

Moreover, food has always been important in social dynamics across cultures. Meals are often used as opportunities for bonding among family members, friends, or colleagues. Food brings people together and creates a sense of belonging within a community.

Food rituals have existed for centuries, from ancient religious feasts to family dinners. They are about satisfying hunger, sharing experiences, and creating memories with others.

https://bowlsunset.com/unpacking-the-significance-of-food-rituals/

Closing of the Mess Hall in Rogers Park, Chicago, IL, with the International Art Group. Created a series of salons and gatherings around food to showcase artists' projects and have across-the-table conversations. 2010

 "A La Blanc" White Party, Bronzeville @ 43rd and Indiana in Chicago IL. Transforming alleyways into family-friendly community engagement. This party began during COVID-19, and five years later, the neighbors are still coming together as placekeepers and using the concept of food as a social construct. 2024