Young artists dive into the world of fruit carving
Fruit carving is the fusion of art and nature, a masterpiece that’s as jaw-dropping as it is delicious. It’s not just about slicing and dicing; it’s about taking Mother Nature’s bountiful gifts and transforming them into edible sculptures that will make you question whether you should frame them or feast on them.
While most art stays put on a canvas, fruit carving is a temporary wonderland of shapes, textures and flavours, and that’s what makes it truly unique.
Fruit carving has gone from being a traditional culinary skill to a mesmerising art form that’s got the younger crowd all excited.
When it comes to unleashing their creative spirit, the youth found their rhythm in fruit carving at a workshop organised by the Belait District Branch of the Youth and Sports Department. More than 20 aspiring artists enthusiastically joined in to master this craft.
I had a chat with the workshop’s maestro, Hajah Nooraishah binti Haji Osman, to get a better understanding about fruit carving.
“Fruit carving comes with some extra perks because it’s not just about making fruit look fancy,” said Hajah Nooraishah. According to her, it kicks up the quality of fruit presentation a notch or two. Plus, it’s like a Swiss Army knife of skills – you can use it in fine dining, turn it into an art form, and even discover some business opportunities.
When it comes to sharing the ABCs of fruit carving, Hajah Nooraishah said that she’s not just teaching the basics. She’s also giving out tips on how to spot the right fruits and veggies that are a breeze to carve.
“To me, fruit carving is a true art form that beautifully presents food and allows us to admire the intricate craftsmanship behind it.
“Mastering fruit carving isn’t a walk in the park, and it’s all about appreciating the dedication and skill that goes into it.” This encompasses not just the precise hand movements but also using the right carving tools, according to Hajah Nooraishah.
“Using regular knives might work, but you won’t get those deep, clean cuts like you would with a dedicated fruit carving knife.”
Indeed, fruit carving may require more equipment and expertise in comparison to other culinary skills. However, the evidence lies in the final product – or in this instance, the exquisite designs you can craft with the appropriate techniques and tools.
“The goal of this fruit carving workshop is to break down those barriers, making it accessible for anyone who’s curious about diving into the world of fruit carving. “Whether you’re a newbie looking for a little taste of this art or an experienced carver wanting to refine your skills, the workshop is here to help you adapt the fundamental techniques to your own comfort and expertise level,” added the workshop’s maestro.
She also mentioned that, “In Brunei, a lot of folks are captivated by flower designs in fruit carving because they’re relatively easier to create. But there’s a whole world of possibilities, including intricate patterns and animals like fish and birds, which are a bit trickier but can result in stunning and eye-catching carvings.” Her wish is that the workshop participants will take what they learn and apply these techniques to elevate their fruit carving skills, potentially opening up doors to entrepreneurial opportunities.
As the fascination for fruit carving continues to grow, many of the young participants are eager to sharpen their skills. Norsyamira binti Sidi shared her experience, finding the challenge of fruit carving both enjoyable and rewarding.
“I work in the kitchen of a local restaurant, and this workshop was a first for me.
“While I’ve picked up some culinary skills from other chefs, it was a delight to learn alongside like-minded individuals who share my passion for fruit carving,” said Norsyamira.
Likewise, Fadzhil bin Abu Bakar also expressed his positive experience with his first foray into fruit carving.
“At first glance, it may seem simple, but it offers a few challenges. I found fruit carving to be an intriguing and enjoyable skill to explore,” said Fadzhil.
Both Norsyamira and Fadzhil share the sentiment that the newly acquired skills have deepened their appreciation for the art of fruit carving. They hope that future workshops will focus on more advanced carving techniques and designs.
Dedicated workshops and programmes centred on fruit carving are becoming increasingly important. These initiatives not only offer budding artists the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals but also foster a sense of community among like-minded enthusiasts.
As the younger generation witnesses this fruitful renaissance, it serves as inspiration for them to turn their dreams into reality, one fruit at a time.
The art of fruit carving is a skill that has the potential to enhance one’s culinary expertise and pave the way for a rewarding career. – Daniel Lim
