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Lifestyle

Exhibition recognizes the artistic value of pizza

Petra Lambeck jt
February 19, 2018

A source of joy for some, junk food for others. The baked dough traditionally topped with tomato and cheese evokes emotions that international artists have translated into appetizing artworks.

A pizza/hand photo manipulation by Uffe Isolotto (Photo: Uffe Isolotto)
Image: Uffe Isolotto

Baking a pizza is not really that simple as it sounds, as any "pizzaiolo," or pizza-maker, will confirm. The dough must have the right consistency. The oven must have the right temperature. Indeed, the whole pizza-making process is regulated by a governmental authority in Italy.

Read more: Lawyer in Dortmund presses charges against unwanted pizzas

In December 2017, UNESCO recognized the timeless art of Neapolitan pizza makers as Intangible Cultural Heritage. According to the international cultural organization, "traditional knowledge that has been transmitted from generation to generation" has turned pizza-making and eating into a "social ritual."

But pizza has not only inspired global gourmands but also artists, as visitors can witness at the "Pizza is God" exhibition at Düsseldorf's NRW Forum. The gallery above previews some of the bite-sized artworks.  

"Pizza is God" runs until May 20, 2018.

Naples pizza takes the prize

02:10

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