Studio Orta

To mark its 30^th anniversary Mural Arts Philadelphia has invited Lucy + Jorge Orta to create the seminal project What We Sow, which expands on the social and civic foundation of the mural tradition by addressing the relationship among local communities, regional ecologies, global economies, and the politics of food production.

On October 5, 2013, to conclude an engaging schedule of community programs, Orta will stage 70 x 7 The Meal, act XXXIV, gathering thousands of people around a meal for dinner. The table, set with a newly commissioned edition of Royal Limoges porcelain plates and a table runner adorned with original drawings by the artists, will span Independence National Historical Park. Among its many historical treasures this park is home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution was debated and adopted in the late 18th century.

70 x 7 The Meal, act XXXIV will gather over a thousand guests around a communal table as well as simultaneous dinners across the city to engage diverse communities in conversation surrounding the issue of heirloom foods and their role in creating access to a healthier food system. The meal will feature a menu of heirloom produce created by Philadelphia’s star Chef Marc Vetri. Invitations to the 70 x 7 The Meal were awarded by lottery, offering equal chance for those from the Philadelphia community to not only take a seat at the table, but to find a voice in the discussion.