Collection: FOOD FOR THOUGHT May 2026
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.
Image: Carol Torian, "Consumed," 2025, Photo. © Carol Torian
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 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
Food Box & Plate Art
Date & Time: May 17, 2026, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 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 dot painting to create plate art for wall decor. 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