Edible Playscapes: An Embodied Dining Experience
Mediamatic, Amsterdam
April—May 2025
Photo by Skaiste Venckevi
Six performances as part of a three week artistic residency in Mediamatic.
200cm wooden table
28 edible elements (plant-based) forming a deconstructed cake
“Alejandra Alarcón’s performance Edible Playscapes:An Embodied Dining Experience took place between 23 of April and 3 of May in Mediamatic’s Sluiderenloods in collaboration with TestTafel - a foundation supporting DeSerring’s community based action through experimental vegan food. The experience begins with a three course menu prepared by TestTafel, consisting of an experimental amalgam of flavors tickling the senses of smell, touch and taste. After that, participants join Alejandra for the performance where the dining table is reimagined as a playscape - both visually and conceptually. Low round table, reminiscent of a kids’ table, enclosed by dark curtains much like a theatrical performance. Participants are given an introduction to the performance, after which are left to explore what is on the table by themselves.”
-Kalina Efremova
“A round table glistens under soft light, with sweet elements laid out playfully in a ring – sponge, mousse, jam, jellies, and edible flowers. It is not merely plated food, but an invitation to a game. Around it, people sit crouched on cushions, fingers hesitating before touching the dessert before them. Someone giggles. Another remembers the last time they’ve sat on the floor to eat. Around this edible playscape crafted by Alejandra Alarcón – a Mexican designer working with food as her primary artistic medium – something begins to shift. As etiquette dissolves, curiosity bubbles up, and memories are stirred not only through taste, but through texture, scent, rhythm, and play. Every participant begins their tasting through a prompt – a challenge that sets the tone of the game.”
-Amanda Erkkola
Minutes before the performance begins. Limited to 12 participants.
Photo by Skaiste VenckeviDetail of the deconstructed cake.Artist placing the deconstructed cake on the table.
Photo by Skaiste VenckeviDetail of the deconstructed cake. Some of the ingredients include sponge cake, olive oil cake, miso caramel, dark chocolate mousse, rhubarb-strawberry jam, meringue, and lavender infused jellies.Participants during the 45 minutes performance.
Photo by Skaiste Venckevi