Sure we know how important dinnerware and drinking vessels are to the dining experience, but these objects also can be works of art. See for yourself during the show delecTABLE: The Fine Art of Dining, which opens on February 21 at the Art Students League of Denver (ASLD).
“Our journey was looking at ceramic works pushing the boundaries that revolve around the theme,” said ASLD ceramics program manager Griffin Callahan. “We saw a lot of creative takes on everyday [items], and most are functional, for service and for different types of food.”
The first delecTABLE started 13 years ago, and 2025 marks the seventh iteration of the show. Entries for the exhibit came from all over the states, and Ohio ceramics professional Justin Paik Reese juried the submissions to 81 final objects. A favorite of Callahan’s, he shared, is artist Osvaldo Romero’s Dinner Time Action Force: Tan Mech, a pair of salt and pepper shakers featuring Gundam-inspired mech suits.
“We have a great variety of work in terms of ceramics, and a large swatch is from across the country,” said Callahan. “We have artists we wouldn’t normally see, but we also are highlighting [talent from] our community.”
It’s not just the ceramic works. This year, for the first time, the walls of ASLD showcase a special exhibit for Denver’s Month of Photography called Food-tography. As the name suggests, the pictures aim to showcase the art of photographing food. Look out for John Bonath‘s Bootie Call, said Callahan. While he can’t quite explain why, the snail perched atop a smooth and curvy pear has been captured in his mind. Expect 65 photos surrounding the ceramics, and yes, all works of art are available for purchase.
See it all for yourself. The show kicks off with a 21-and-up opening reception on Friday, February 21 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $15, with advance purchase advised. The exhibit remains on view through March 30, and there will be a final reception and awards ceremony on March 7. For more details, go to asld.org.
