On a surprisingly warm evening in San Francisco, guests congregated at an intimate gallery, uncertain about their next move. Before them lay an elegantly draped table adorned with exquisite potted plants. The round foliage partially concealed small, vibrant buttons. Are those safe to eat? attendees pondered. What about the stems? The curious presentation of food outside its conventional context elicits varied emotions—amusement, intrigue, and awe. This trend of food art is gaining prominence.
Historically, there has always been a realm where artists employed edible materials and food-centric themes to convey messages—think of Kara Walker’s sugar sculptures or Judy Chicago’s seminal work Dinner Party. Today, in the age of social media, food art brings together sensory experience, visual creativity, and culinary prestige, mainly through temporary installations, exhibitions, and pop-up events. The food becomes reimagined yet remains approachable. The ambiance and venue are equally significant; picture unforgettable edible displays at a brand reveal. An interactive tasting experience at the year’s most talked-about gathering. A striking moment at an art showcase. While profound themes and narratives continue to thrive, so does the joy of playful experimentation and artistic collaboration.
If there’s a name that stands out, it’s culinary artist and social media sensation Laila Gohar, renowned for her creative use of food. Gohar has collaborated with brands like Hermès, Byredo, and Simone Rocha, bringing her signature flair and whimsy to fashion events and dinner parties. However, her artistry, like that of many within this field, has primarily catered to upscale private occasions and quirky photo opportunities—until now.
As the appetite for digital experiences packed with videos declines, more opportunities to engage with food art in public venues are emerging, led by a new generation of artists following Gohar’s path. These creatives transform galleries into edible jungles, host immersive dining events, bewilder audiences by blending hors d’oeuvres with natural elements like rocks and moss, and elevate food on literal stands of architectural intrigue. Below, discover five innovative food artists to keep an eye on.
Elena Petrossian and Verónica González, Ananas Ananas
Photo: Maya Kariana
