Art and Food

I was watching the the Food Network and noticed that a lot the shows are fueled by creative and artistic chefs and home cooks. The show that sparked my interest the most was a program called Halloween Wars in which the contestants were to create a variety of Halloween themed food items in a timed contest. The contestants were using various artist techniques to create their masterpieces. They were using sculpting, lighting, and imaginative engineering techniques to create really cool Jack O Lanterns. They were also making cupcakes and cake items that were spooky themed. It was so interesting to see how these people were able to create such interesting things in such a short amount of time.

Other shows I watched on the Food Network consistently referenced to the fact that we eat with our eyes first. Many of the fancy cuisine items made did indeed look like works of edible art. It makes sense that something so pretty would also taste pretty too. For a chef to be able to create a meal or dish that is georgous to look at and taste wonderful as well is a true talent.

I noticed that the chefs were judged on plating their items which is purely visual and doesn't change the taste of the food.  But it actually, a messy plate may change the taste because by looking at it first, we develop an expectation of the food before tasting it and an unattractive plate of food can give us a sense of disappointment before it's even tasted.