The Norman Rea Gallery is proud to announce its third exhibition of the 2025/2026 committee and first
exhibition of 2026, ‘Food for Thought: A Tasting Menu.’
Food for Thought: A Tasting Menu is a celebration of one of life’s most cherished necessities. Food has served artists as inspiration, subject matter, material, and, of course, sustenance. Whilst being a base need for survival, food has a further cultural richness that evokes community, memory and home. Departing from food’s role as a status symbol and display of wealth in art, Food for Thought strives to view food as it should be- something for everyone.
Food in art has taken the form of still lives for centuries. Deemed more a show of artistic skill than of narrative or overt meaning, the still life was viewed as one of the lowest ranks of painting. Whilst not as overtly rich in meaning as a religious allegory or a history painting, food reveals to the viewer messages of wealth, abundance, and exoticism. The still life has been reinvented as an appreciative celebration of food, no matter its cultural standing.
For many, cooking itself can be viewed as a medium for creative expression. Combinations of flavour and innovative cooking techniques form individual dishes, and presentation provides a medium for visual experimentation. Furthermore, food presents a rich variety of depictions in commercial and editorial photography, and in the graphic design of its packaging, giving an added perspective of advertising and commodity. Whether a grandiose display of love or a simple show of appreciation, food has provided comfort to those in the direst of situations, serving as the highlight of the day for many. It is a vessel for community and intimacy. A dinner date, catching up with a friend over coffee, or even making a cuppa for the plumber, food creates opportunities for us to connect with others.
The opening night for Food For Thought: A Tasting Menu will take place on the 10th of February at 18:30-21:00. In addition to the exhibition, the Norman Rea will run events, further drawing upon the themes raised within the artworks displayed.