relish your apartness
A while ago
posted a few excerpts from chefs notebooks and I started toying with the idea that cooks and chefs, perhaps in anyone in the culinary arts, understand art, creativity, and artistry better than most creatives. That they have a better approach and perspective when it comes to producing and making.They know how to be efficient. To be meticulous. They understand the value of prep work. Of keeping your tools sharp and your station clean. Of working hard. Of plating perfectly. Every time. Without fail.
And yet they are never too precious about what they make. When it’s finished pass it through the window and move on to the next dish. Ultimately, it’s all intended to be devoured. To be consumed. It isn’t for you. It’s made to be given away.
In many ways chefs and cooks understand what it means to be an artist, what it takes, better than other artists do.
At first I wasn’t sure where this working hypothesis was coming from, but then Words in Bloom and I started rereading Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain, and it all started coming back to me.
In just the preface I found a few passages that help to make my point on the subject. I thought I'd share them with you and, of course, make collages too.
normal is impossible
a society of making
relish your apartness
Love these! I love how your inspiration seems to vary with each post. Cooking was certainly not what I was expecting for this one, but I'm so glad you used it.
Your description of cooking at the start reminds me a little of the movie Hunger on Netflix (if I'm remembering the movie right). The movie might be a little bit more about the status that comes with certain foods, but it definitely toys with ideas of craftsmanship/perfection and the symbolism/art of food. I can't remember how good it was, but it's stuck with me, so maybe it's worth a watch.
So good! I never thought of chefs this way but you’re right, they are artists. The impermanence intimidates me — I always think, well, then what’s it for anyway?! — but I know this is something I need to crack. Also, you’re making me want to read Kitchen Confidential again! Last read it in the 90s!