During the residency in VHDG , the concept of “spontaneity” has been identified as a vital element. This is reflected in the name, “Out of Blue Dinner,” which highlights the unexpected and impromptu nature of the dining experience in Asian culture, a feature we discovered is missing in Dutch culture. In this manner, the alienation of “there” and “here” appear.
In collaboration with @shelterinplace_smet , this installation is developed from this alienation, which means to question the expectation of integration when it comes to (im)migration, especially in the Dutch context. We want to bring the visitors to think, what does integration mean? What dominant culture can do to multiculture? What’s the differences between adaptability and integration?
In addition to the installation, we created an ‘Out of Blue Dinner Toolkit’ for the people who are curious about multicultural cuisine. Drawing from the Homesick Restaurant’s experience in hosting food practices, this toolkit provides a step-by-step framework on “how to organize a dinner event,” “how to set up a table,” and “how to introduce your culture.” You are welcome to exchange your kitchen textiles (apron, tea towel, kitchen cloth) for this toolkit.
