For centuries, artists have depicted people preparing and enjoying food and drink, be they at home, out on the town, or sitting al fresco. To consume a meal or tipple is part of being human, so it makes sense that collectors love to display reminders on their walls. Artists now are no less interested in the themes of consumption and hospitality than their forerunners were. Though subtle critiques are sometimes embedded in the resulting images, most contemporary artists are instead drawn to cafes, bars, restaurants, and kitchens for their visual appeal.
Illustrated here is an array of superb artworks made in this timeless genre. Enjoy, and bon appetit!
1. “News Worthy”
2. “Oligarchs”
3. “Shopping Cart”
4. “The Discussion”
5. “Sushi Trail”
6. “Beiler’s in Reading Terminal”
7. “May Morning in San Marco”
8. “Chef’s Station”
9. “Brooklyn Lunch”
10. “Silver Spoons”
11. “Jelly Donut”
12. “Far Far Away”
13. “Cook Works”
14. “Cheeseburger”
15. “Bag of Grannys”
16. “Lunch in Provence IV”
17. “A Careful Cleaning”
18. “Two Up, One on the Rocks”
19. “Waiting to Be Chopped”
20. “Seasonal Favorites”
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