Friday, August 21, 2009

The Southern Table

The idea was to create an exhibit that showcased each southern state together in one place - literally at a table. The journey to begin to set the table has been arduous. I have been so surprised at how difficult it has been to gather the place settings. Although not all of the place settings have arrived, we are beginning to lay out this exhibit. Then we will see what holes we have to fill.

A curious fact is that Washington, DC, a mere city, has no official residence and no official china. So we have been able to decide for ourselves what should represent Washington, DC on the table. Louisiana and Arkansas have provided handmade place settings. Some states have provided official place settings.

But starting to see the exhibit take shape has made me see how the metaphor of all of the states gathered at a table is really touching and powerful. Next week we will begin posting photos of the table. I would love to see a huge exhibit with a place setting from every state in the US.

Your ideas for the table, menus and books, other table props would be appreciated.

1 comment:

RA said...

I was reading your post and wondering why you didn't want to do a presidential theme for the DC table in your Southern Tables Exhibit, but now I notice that you have an exhibit on White Houses Dining.

I see you are still talking about the Southern Tables Exhibit on your website in future tense...when will this exhibit be up? I am visiting New Orleans around Thanksgiving and, if my plans allow, I would love to visit your museum. Thanks.