Cook'd photographed by Shon Curtis
16" x 30.5” unframed
Part of the Images from Storytellers exhibition.
Limited Edition (Size of 7)
Series Title: Hands That Remember: Culture
Photographer: Shon Curtis
This series offers a rare glimpse into the heart of Culture, a Dayton restaurant led by chef Dane Shipp, nestled in the historic Oregon District. These images capture the intimate moments behind the scenes as Chef Shipp and his team of culinary creatives meticulously craft a new menu. The photographs highlight the collaboration, artistry, and innovation that often go unseen, yet are essential to the dining experience.
At its core, this work reflects my passion for the intersection of culinary art, culture, and photography—an exploration of the stories that unfold before the final dish is ever plated. Though these images stand alone, they also serve as a quiet prelude to a larger project I’m working on a cookbook celebrating Black chefs across the country and their culturally significant recipes.
Through these behind-the-scenes snapshots, I aim to reveal the layers of creativity, tradition, and craft that build the foundation for what we taste and savor, connecting the visible with the hidden narratives that shape every dish.
Images from Storytellers is part of the 2024 FotoFocus Biennial: backstories.