Rated ART’s Dynamic Duo – Becca Kallem and PinStripe’s Jesse Davis
By now you might have heard about our upcoming gala Rated ART. We chose this theme to prepare you to explore the role of inspiration. As promised, we’re back to share some of what inspires our artists, chefs, and mixologists.
Rated ART combines AAC’s stunning gallery spaces with food and drink inspired by the artwork of AAC Resident Artists. But the excitement and adventure doesn’t stop there! Throughout the night, guests will enjoy interactive installations and participate in a special performance piece. A night of discovery and invention awaits you at Rated ART!
To entice and tempt you, we’ve asked our chefs and artists to answer a few questions about their work, their inspirations, and their superpowers! First up, the dynamic duo of PinStripes – Georgetown and AAC Resident Artist Becca Kallem!
Can’t Stop, 2015, acrylic on linen, 32 x 18 x 2.5 in, $850What made you decide to enter the culinary/art world and why did you want to become a chef/artist?
Becca: Ever since I was a toddler I have loved to draw, paint, and make. Nothing else brings me the same combination of passion and peace.
Jesse: I have always gravitated towards the culinary arts!
I was influenced at a young age by my grandfather who was a theatrical editor for the New York Daily News. I accompanied my grandfather to the shows and often was treated to amazing dining experiences all over New York.
<--Pictured here is Becca's artwork, which Jesse used for his Rated ART dish and drink inspiration
What gets your creative juices flowing for your next piece/plate? Tell us about your thought process…
Becca: I find visual inspiration in the materials at hand as well as the things I see around me – a bright scrap of string, an image of a favorite “masterpiece,” a cast shadow.
I am also inspired by my teaching work and reading about learning and language.
Jesse: I like to impress people with good food! People are more aware about cuisine, so being creative and exploring new dishes is exciting.
What’s your art/culinary superpower?
Becca: Drawing portraits.
Jesse: Being able to improvise on the spur of the moment! I can show my creativity in a very short period of time.
Jesse: Simple, well executed dishes! To me eating is a social thing; it’s no fun to eat alone. I like to evoke emotions from my dishes and make someone’s dining experience through the food.
Join us on Wednesday, September 27 for a special gala and silent auction to benefit the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington. Tickets range from $250 to $500 and include a 3-course dinner, silent auction, and the joy you’ll feel knowing you’re supporting the museum! Can’t attend? Consider sponsoring an artist to attend in your place!
MoCA Arlington at Met Park Fun for the whole family! No Experience Required offers playful art making activities for children (and their curious adults) every Sunday morning. There will be collaborative, community-built art works, and opportunities to “make and take” works, too.
