Feast for the Eyes: The Story of Food in Photography, Photographers' Gallery

What we eat is as susceptible to changing fashions as the shoes on our feet or the colours of our walls, and, with the aid of Instagram, food photography has become a mainstream subject. Social media is teeming with images of crushed avocadoes on toast and artful cappuccinos, as influencers show off their sunlit dining experiences. This autumn, the Photographers’ Gallery is set to serve up more of what we want, with a show dedicated to exploring the fascinating – and unsettling – history of food photography.

Featuring over 140 works, the exhibition will be divided into three sections: Still Life, Around the Table and Playing with Food. Through these themes we will learn about the changing rituals and traditions surrounding mealtimes, the aesthetics of food and the humour and irony that populates the genre. And expect some big names. Exhibiting artists will include Cindy Sherman, Man Ray, Stephen Shore and Martin Parr.


Right: Grant Cornett, Sexy Sliders, 2016 for Gather Journal. Left: Daniel Gordon, Pineapple and Shadow, 2011

More than anything, this exhibition will remind us that food is not just food. What we eat and how we present it reveals so much about our time, about gender, desire, pleasure, disgust and wealth. ‘Food, and how it is photographed defines how we live and how we value ourselves’ says co-curator Susan Bright. ‘At its very best it connects us to our dreams and desires.’

This exhibition will, now doubt, provide some food for thought. Food is a hot topic right now and our growing obsession with what we consume is part of growing awareness of our environment. If you haven't already, visit the V&A's show FOOD: Bigger than the Plate to whet your appetite, for what promises to be a glorious feast for the eyes.