Thursday, April 23, 2009

The one true art form

So how about a discussion about art? Here is the question: What is the one true art form? There are many forms of expression and an endless list of things that are considered art, but is there one (or some) artistic endeavour that holds more validity over another? What are the criteria? Is it even fair to compare dance to music, poetry to painting, etc.? Here is an idea, what art form stimulates the most senses? Painting covers sight and maybe touch and smell if you get close enough, and music triggers sound (well you could argue that a good concert experience can stimulate sight, sound, touch, and smell). Is there any art form that can use all of the senses? Sure, how about food. Food, or the dining experience, can offer something to all of the senses. Food should taste great, look pleasing, have the right texture, smell wonderful, and crackle with delight as it is being prepared. Take the classic Mexican fajita for example. Part of the joy of ordering this satisfying dish is the aroma and sound as it leaves the kitchen and arrives on your table (usually with everyone in the immediate vicinity looking over at you with that "I wish I ordered that" look on their face). Food is art, it just isn't thought of like that because everyone has to eat to survive. Art isn't about doing something different or expressive just for the idea of it, it can also be the transformation of something mundane (or something we all must do, like taking a shit or speaking) into an expressive representation of the human experience. Food is such a great example of art and it holds so many similarities with the "classical" forms. Food pleases the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and brain. Anyone can create art, its just those with training or experience seem to be better at it. Just like chefs with prime rib or your grandmother and her heavenly cookies. It seems like famous chefs are gaining popularity as celebrities, but are they getting the recognition as artists? I feel that Morimoto is every bit the artist that Bono is, but is that the general consensus? Are we ready for art shows that focus on food instead of having an art show that is catered by a notable chef? But I digress......