Jolita Vaitkute’s “Hungry for Love” series creatively explores the symbiosis between love and nourishment through a unique medium: vegetables. Vaitkutė employs the natural colors and textures of vegetables to capture the palpable emotions found in intimate connections. The series goes beyond simple visual artistry and delves into a narrative woven with genuine affection and sentimental storytelling. Her work challenges the viewer to reevaluate traditional perceptions of art and love, portraying the universality of human emotion through an unexpected canvas. By juxtaposing everyday edible items in a romantic theme, Vaitkutė positions love as a fundamental aspect of human existence that, much like food, is necessary for sustenance and joy.
Each portrait represents more than just an artistic endeavor; it is an embodiment of authentic human experiences and diverse love stories across cultural and societal spectrums. Vaitkutė’s innovative approach in using vegetables as her medium symbolizes how love, much like the ingredients in a recipe, is crucially vital yet incredibly diverse across different palates. The portraits resonate with the audience, invoking a sense of warmth while simultaneously posing a powerful commentary on the unifying yet varied nature of love. The intricate assembly of vegetables into lifelike portraits of couples caught in a moment of bliss invites reflection on the essential nature of love in our lives, encouraging an appreciation of diversity while celebrating the intimate bonds that transcend visible differences.
We need love like we need food. It does not fall within the defined frames. It disregards the standards and norms of society and erases all boundaries. Some of us are sensitive to the spices of love, so we can gradually get comfortable and accept other people’s love. The series of kisses “Hungry for Love” is not just vegetables that have fallen into the right places. Behind these organics are a real kiss and a true love story. No matter how long we look at these beets, potatoes, radishes, or pumpkins, we will still see two kissing people. The hunger for love cannot be disguised. Every person told me a story about how they met. I did my best trying to express their feelings through food art.
Jolita Vaitkutė
More info: Website, Instagram (h/t: Bored Panda).
