Monks & Friars & Food . . . Oh My!

Spring 2012

Opening Lecture by Fr. Michael Morris, OP

Part of the Faith in Food project

Exhibition notes

From the ridiculous to the sublime, this exhibition charts those points wherein monastic practices, both real and perceived, have left their mark on culinary history. Fine art, prints, photographs, books, and artifacts have been gathered to amaze, entertain, and instruct viewers in the sweet and savory secrets of the cloister.

The majority of pieces in this exhibit are from the Santa Fe Institute (Berkeley), an affiliate of DSPT under the direction of Michael Morris, OP.

For more information about the exhibit, visit the "Exhibition Notes," by Chris Renz, OP.

Opening Lecture and Reception: Monday, February 20, 2012

A lecture by Fr. Michael Morris, OP, professor of Religion & the Arts, explored fine art, prints, photographs, books, and artifacts gathered for this exhibit to amaze, entertain, and instruct viewers in the sweet and savory secrets of the cloister.

Following the lecture was a screening of The Cheese Nun as night two of the Faith in Food Film Series. The Cheese Nun defines the centuries-old commitment and dedication of many religious to the careful and artistic production of foods and beverages by tracing the story of Sr. Noella Marcellino, OSB, and her passion for cheese making.

Reception.  Throughout history, religious communities have typically been sustainable. Often they have produced unique artisanal foods, including beer, wine, and many different types of cheeses and confections. The reception following Fr. Michael's lecture provided a unique sampling of such foods from modern day monasteries. Each of the following monasteries donated examples of their carefully crafted wares for our enjoyment:

Benedictine Abbey of Christ in the Desert - Monks' Wit    and Monks' Ale 

Benedictine Abbey of New Clairvaux - wines 

Monastic Communities of New Skete - artisanal cheeses 

Brigittine Priory of Our Lady of Consolation - gourmet confections 

and help DSPT continue to present quality art in Blackfriars Gallery and generate conversations between Philosophy, Theology, and the Arts.

See the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology Calendar and Upcoming Events Page for all current events. For more events in the area, visit the Graduate Theological Union events calendar and the University of California, Berkeley events calendar .