Eric Carle’s beloved book “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” is just one part of his story. His passion for food and cooking shines brightly in a new exhibition at the Eric Carle Museum in Amherst. Titled “Cooking with Eric Carle,” this showcase runs from September 20, 2025, to August 23, 2026, featuring over 50 of Carle’s works from 1965 to 2019.
Carle once said that if he weren’t an illustrator, he would want to be a chef. This love for food played a significant role in his creations. Isabel Ruiz Cano, an associate curator at the museum, explains, “For Eric, food and cooking were ways to connect with people, share memories, and spread joy.” He often reflected on his childhood in Germany, where simple acts like collecting eggs from his grandmother’s garden brought him happiness. These memories motivated him to evoke joy in others through his art.
The exhibition is divided into three sections. The first, “Making Meals, Sharing Stories,” highlights food-centric pieces, including his illustrations for “Red Flannel Hash and Shoo-Fly Pie” and the story of “Walter the Baker,” inspired by his uncle. These works illustrate how cooking and storytelling intertwine.
Curator Ruiz Cano notes that cooking often requires creativity, much like art. “Both involve thinking on your feet,” she says, “sometimes you plan, other times you wing it.” This connection between cooking and art is evident in Carle’s unique approach to both.
The second section, “Playing with Your Food,” showcases Carle’s whimsical side. It features playful illustrations—like a fox nibbling a book with the phrase “Books are good for you.” Carle’s humor shines through in these pieces, revealing his ability to bring joy to simple subjects.
The last part of the exhibition, “Oodles of Doodles,” focuses on Carle’s love for doodling. Among the highlights is a collection of doodled checks from Sienna, a restaurant he frequented. Carle would often doodle animals on these checks, showcasing his imagination even in everyday settings.
One touching piece includes four painted yogurt lids. Carle had yogurt every day while working in his studio. There’s a story that during the museum’s opening, he took a break to enjoy some yogurt, seeking a moment of peace amidst the excitement. This gesture illustrates his humility and desire to create a space for artists to connect.
The exhibition also engages younger visitors with interactive activities, inviting them to create “meals” or share recipes. This focus on community echoes Carle’s belief that art and food provide comfort and connection—a sentiment echoed by many parents and children who attended. User reactions on social media show excitement, as families appreciate the blend of creativity and interactive learning.
As you explore “Cooking with Eric Carle,” it becomes clear that food is more than just nourishment for Carle. It symbolizes love, connection, and creativity. The Eric Carle Museum aims to embody this spirit, fostering a community where art and food meet.
For those interested, the Eric Carle Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, with admission fees varying based on age and status. More details can be found on their website: carlemuseum.org.
Source link
Amherst MA,art,Homecenterpiece2,Latest News
