Stephen Lapthisophon: The Construction of a National Identity

Nourishment returns to contemporary art in more ways than one in the exhibition The Construction of National Identity by Stephen Lapthisophon. This recent work addresses issues of place, identity, and history through acts of the hand including drawing, writing and preparing food. This new installation will focus on the recipe for the traditionally Spanish rice dish Paella. According to the artist, rice is a symbol for cultural hybridity because it translates into the cuisine of most countries. Lapthisophon is himself a cultural hybrid from Thai and Irish descent who has spent much time in Germany and Italy. Living among the language, food and music of these countries has had an effect on the artist’s aesthetic. The manner in which experiences translate from one culture to another is a major focal point in his text and sound based work. The Construction of National Identity will include a wall drawing made with perishable materials like rice flour and saffron ink, found objects, audio and photographs to refer to the various ways we make our mark in the world, both literally and figuratively, through the things we eat and prepare with our hands.