Third Culture: Childhood Foods from the Diaspora by Melanie Abrantes
Rare Device invites you to discover the captivating world of "Third Culture: Childhood Foods from the Diaspora", featuring the work of artist Melanie Abrantes.
Step into a unique narrative that unveils Melanie's life as a third culture kid, growing up in Texas in the 90’s celebrating the cultural amalgamation that has shaped her identity. Through carved wood sculptures, Melanie immortalizes her fondest memories of her favorite foods from Filipino, Portuguese, Brazilian, and Texan influences. These relief carvings are a testament to her deep-rooted love for her cultures different flavors and tastes.
"Third Culture: Childhood Foods of the Diaspora" is an exploration of identity, belonging, and the powerful connection between art and the food that feels like home.
Show Dates: Friday, August 11th - September 17th
Reception: Friday, August 11th, 6-8pm
Artist Statement: This show is an immersive exploration of my life as a third culture kid growing up in the 90’s in the suburbs of Houston, Texas. Through the art of wood relief carvings, I tried to capture the many memories I had surrounding the food I ate growing up with my different heritages. From Filipino parties where we would hang out all day eating buffet style all our culture favorites to making Brazilian cheese bread from the box at home to find that rare flavor that tastes like home. This show delves into the fusion of cultures and the profound impact of food on shaping identities. Growing up my mom always made her favorite foods for us that brought us joy and I hope you join me in sharing my favorite foods with you. Even if you can't eat them!
Artist Bio: Designer Melanie Abrantes started her business Melanie Abrantes Designs in 2013. She is a Filipina and Portuguese-Brazilian designer and artist. She grew up in Houston, TX and moved to Los Angeles, CA in 2008 to study Product Design at Otis College of Art and Design. In 2014 she moved to Oakland, CA to pursue her business full time. She wrote her first book in 2017 with Penguin Random House, “Carve: A Simple Guide to Whittling”. She was named by Country Living’s 100 Most Creative People. Her work has been featured in Dwell Magazine, Martha Stewart, NY Times and more. She still resides in Oakland with her little dog, Rover!