ABSTRACT

A mashup of food and art—aside from being a bad pun—may seem almost impossible to achieve given the size and scope of each. The idea of a multicultural potluck might seem trite or in some way an instance of cultural appropriation, but most assuredly it is not—these are invariably delicious. Amateur outsiders should be encouraged to create specific cultural dishes with no more guidance than internet recipes. Arrange beforehand for critiques by knowledgeable experts. The story of Ibrahim Songne, who immigrated from Burkina Faso and evolved a unique pizza style, winning over an initially hostile surrounding culture, can stimulate discussion of ways in which food plays a role in dissolving prejudice. A simpler and fun way to begin thinking about food iconography is to distribute blank paper plates and markers or crayons and set the group the task of designing a plate for a restaurant in a specific culture.