Collection: FOOD FOR THOUGHT May 2026

Image: Tessa Dahlmann, "Masala Dabba," Oil on Canvas. 11"x14" © Tessa Dahlmann

Food is nourishment. Food is history. Food is legacy. Food is complicated. It is ritual, identity, memory,  labor, exploitation, sustainability, luxury and lack. It is against this layered, complex backdrop that Drinking Gourd Gallery presents Food for Thought — an intriguing group art exhibition that will delve into the many meanings and contradictions of what we eat, how we eat, and who gets to eat. Featuring works by contemporary artists across mediums, the exhibition examines the intersections of food with culture, inequality, environment, enjoyment, and survival.

Through evocative paintings, installations, photography, and mixed media, “Food for Thought” invites viewers to consider a myriad of issues such as the global food chain, the politics of access, the intimacy of family meals, fast food consumption, food waste, health, and the deep emotional connections tied to taste and tradition. “Food for Thought” is a celebratory and critical exhibition, challenging us to reflect on our personal and collective relationships with food. 

Location: Wake Forest Community Library, 400 E Holding Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587

Dates: May 1 through May 30, 2026

Associated Programming:

Artist Talk & Opening Reception
Date & Time: May 7, 2026, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.  Join us for an engaging discussion with the artists to learn more about their practice and the inspiration for their work. Location: Wake Forest Community Library, 400 E Holding Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587  

Food Box & Plate Art
Date & Time: May 17, 2026, 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Join us for this fun class where we'll cut food boxes into interesting shapes to create collage art. We'll also do some painting to create plate art for wall decor. Location: Wake Forest Community Library, 400 E Holding Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587

Food Justice Conversation: Access, Equity & Community-Powered Solutions 
Date & Time: May 20, 2026, 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. This panel brings together advocates, organizers, policymakers, and community leaders to explore the realities of food insecurity, inviting attendees to listen, learn, and imagine a more equitable food future—one rooted in collaboration, dignity, and collective care. Location: Wake Forest Community Library, 400 E Holding Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587

Art Therapy Therapeutic Healing & Grounding

Date & Time: May 22, 10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. 

Program attendees will be guided by local artist and therapist Nashia Whittenburg, MSW, LCSWA, on a journey of grounding, self-exploration, mental health, and well-being through art and creation. Attendees will create their own special work of art to take home, while engaging with therapeutic healing and grounding techniques to support and center each participant.  Location: Wake Forest Community Library, 400 E Holding Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587

Food Collection
Month-long non-perishables food collection for distribution to local food pantries. Location: Wake Forest Community Library, 400 E Holding Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587