“À Table! Happy Gathering!” Makes Its China Debut in Fuzhou
What kind of sparks will fly when cuisine meets art, and French gastronomy blends with Fujian flavors? To mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and France, the Sino-French Food & Art Fusion Exchange Project - “À Table! Happy Gathering!”- made its debut in China, officially opening in Fuzhou on October 28, as part of the 2024 Festival Croisements.
This project was recommended by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, and launched by the Institut français and the French Consulate General in Guangzhou. It was hosted by the Fuzhou Cangshan District People’s Government and Ronghui Group, and co-organized by the Guihu Art Museum in Fujian Province and other institutions, with support from the Foreign Affairs Office of the Fuzhou Municipal People’s Government and the Fuzhou Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism. Using food as a medium, the project weaves in elements of Fuzhou’s culture and arts, highlighting “cross-disciplinary collaboration and global connection.” The series of events will continue through late November.
According to reports, this project was founded in 2019 by two French artists. Keti Irubetagoyena, one of the founders, is the artistic director and theater director at the Théâtre Variable 2 in France, while Kelly Paulme, the other founder, is a former Michelin-starred chef who now runs a creative restaurant.
The project combines food and art, integrating French cuisine with regional flavors. By using the dining table as a stage, it aims to broaden perspectives, push boundaries, and foster cross-disciplinary cultural and artistic exchanges.
The project makes its China debut in Fuzhou for several reasons. First, the city is currently bidding for “City of Gastronomy.” Second, Fuzhou is set to become one of the three pioneering cities in Fujian Province featured in the Michelin Guide’s exploration of local cuisine and culinary culture, with the restaurant guide expected to be released by the end of 2024. Third, the deep-rooted history and rich development and innovation results of Fujian cuisine, combined with the region’s distinctive landscapes and rich cultural traditions, will offer French artists a wealth of creative inspiration during their stay.
On October 27, the two founders arrived in Fuzhou to begin their one-month artistic journey. During this period, they will immerse themselves in Fuzhou’s cultural arts, natural heritage, and culinary traditions, while also exploring the ingredients and techniques of Fujian cuisine. They will work closely with local chefs, food lovers, and various professionals to explore innovative ways to merge Chinese and French culinary cultures. The project will culminate in a diverse artistic feast that blends food, music, dance, calligraphy, floral arrangements, and crafts. (Fuzhou Evening News Reporter: Wang Yanglin)