From Plate to Palette: Arden Upton brings Alabama’s culinary scene to life
From the careful sourcing of ingredients to the artful presentation on the plate, the culinary world is undeniably a form of artistry–and this year, Birmingham Restaurant Week is celebrating that by adding a fresh dimension to the table: visual art.
This year’s theme, Legacy of the Southern Table, is brought to life through a special exhibit by featured artist Arden Upton. Her collection, Frank’s Table, is a vibrant tribute to Birmingham’s culinary culture, blending expressive, heartfelt paintings inspired by renowned Birmingham chef Frank Stitt and the unforgettable experiences his restaurants have created for generations of diners.
Upton is no stranger to capturing beauty. With over 25 years of experience as a professional photographer, she recently shifted her focus to painting. Visual art, she says, has always felt second nature.
“I come from a family of artists on both sides, so art has always felt very natural to me,” she shares. “The great thing is that so much carries over–visual concepts, composition, color theory, and of course, great customer service.”