Rural Kitchen Painting

South Africa is a country where many different influences come into play especially in its cuisine. In a rural kitchen, various influences shape and mould the recipes passed on from generation to generation. Socioeconomic, religious, cultural, environmental and other influences are involved in shaping the fusion of African, English, French, German, Dutch, Malaya and Indian influences that shape our South African cuisine historically. In this painting, I was I trying to capture the atmosphere in a rural kitchen, during winter, after the harvest and in preparation of preserving the excess produce. In winter the farmers preserve their excess as jams, chutneys and preserves. Because of a strong Malay influence in the cuisine, the chutneys have strong curry and chilli flavors, perfect as an accompanying side dish to a rather bland by comparison, English Roast or German inspired Worsrolletjies.i hope the viewer feels the anticipation of the creative process in the kitchen, an almost festive vibe, subdued by the cozy fire and lengthy process of creating a hundred or so jars of chutney. Farming communities would barter with their preserves and a famous chutney could be traded for a few jars of jam or even eggs. The poor, often unseen, kitchen help would gain a measure of visibility if their preserves were valued by the wealthy farming community around them. Recipes were closely guarded secrets and only sisters, aunts and cousins were allowed in on the secret. At least one young kitchen help was given a serious beating for selling her family secret recipe with a competitive neighbor.

Painting:Oil on Canvas

Original:One-of-a-kind Artwork

Size:8.3 W x 11.7 H x 0.8 D in

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