Taiwanese Master Food Carver Shines Light on Appetizing Artform

TaiwanPlus News

Taiwanese master food carver Kao Shih-ta has won numerous culinary awards for his edible artworks. He's now a professor, sharing his expertise with a new generation of aspiring food carvers.

Transcript

00:00Intricate carvings that you can eat.

00:05These miniature Chinese zodiac animals are some of the most popular types of food sculptures

00:10used in Taiwanese cuisine.

00:12But mastering the carving techniques is no easy task.

00:15Gao Shida has spent over two decades learning this unique craft.

00:19He says every piece requires a keen eye and attention to detail.

00:25The process of imagining the ingredients as a three-dimensional object is one thing,

00:30but when you get your hands on a sculpture, it's another thing.

00:33So when you first start, there's a big collision period.

00:37Gao learned his craft by apprenticing with other master food carvers.

00:41Throughout his career, he's won numerous awards for his edible artworks,

00:45gaining recognition both at home and abroad.

00:48And he was even named one of Taiwan's 10 Outstanding Young Persons in 2022.

00:53Now, Gao's a professor, guiding culinary students on their journey to becoming food carvers.

01:12Though there's no guarantee food carving will always be in demand,

01:16Gao says it's his passion, and he doesn't intend to stop,

01:19aiming to bring more attention to this appetizing art form

01:22and to be an ambassador for Taiwan's unique food culture.

01:26John Hsu and Wesley Lewis for Taiwan Plus.

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