Staff WriterAcross the world, food represents more than just a source of nourishment. Flavours evoke feelings and memories, they reflect our unique cultural identities, and dining is often a social occasion shared with someone special.
Melting Pot is a celebration of the diverse and vibrant cultures and flavours in New Art Exchange’s locality. Hyson Green is the most culturally diverse neighbourhood in Nottingham, composed of thriving local businesses where you can buy a samosa, a patty or a pickled egg. In this cultural bank holiday weekend, NAE invites everyone to explore our local identity through an assortment of food stalls, live music, dance performances, artist’s events and family activities.
The festival will fill NAE with vibrant activities, open to everyone to enjoy. The event hosts a broad assortment of world food stalls, all produced by local food merchants and community groups. The festival spills onto the pavement where a cycle powered smoothie maker will be mixing refreshing fruity drinks.
As well as tasting the flavours of the world, there is an assortment other cultural activities which are free for all. Manushi Dance Company present the classical Indian dance, Kathak, whilst Hyson Green Youth Club’s very own dance troupe, 4Flava, flaunt their latest street dance moves. Younger audiences can take inspiration from the festival through our fun family friendly activities. Weave a magical story about food or go in search of hidden eggs!
A variety of Nottingham-based artists will respond to the festivities, exploring the many wonderful facets of food. Rebecca Beinart takes visitors on a tour foraging for ingredients native to Hyson Green; Rachael Young’s work ‘Pudding Fingers’ delves into the social and personal experiences of eating; and NAE’s very own ExperiMentor artist Feng-Ru Lee presents her participatory artwork ‘Secret Dumplings’ where visitor’s secrets are cooked into dumplings and consumed by others.
Concluding the festival on Sunday afternoon, guitarist and vocalist Jasmine Rogers, and tabla player Mendi Mohinder Singh perform a jugalbandi battle of complimentary musical styles.
Whether you enjoy food, music, dance, or have a passion for the local community, Melting Pot Festival invites visitors to experience the world at New Art Exchange, Hyson Green.
The event has been made possible through the generous support of the College of Arts, University of Lincoln.
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