A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of creating a still life grazing table for @theranch.art in response to @noeldelesseps show “The End”, with special consideration given to Noel’s painting “the fork and the sea” (2022) @megankincaid described the piece as “a composition that constellates a world that ripples into ravines of meandering time and narrative pockets populated by a motley cohort of animals, mythological creatures, monsters and celestial bodies.” Upon first viewing the work, I was struck by the duality of land and sea, a gorgeous wave of blue and green hues simultaneously sweeping up and revealing the admittedly confounding nature of “out East.” I really connected with Noel’s interpretation of a Hamptons fantasy — less Daisy Buchanan and more J.R.R. Tolkien. In many ways, I happen to think that the Montauk lighthouse is the eye of Sauron. With that in mind, I knew that I wanted the grazing table to have a medieval renaissance feel, with an abundance of gold & silver platters, green & blue hues, and a menu consisting of exclusively French & local ingredients to honor Noel’s heritage. A table of oysters and shrimp from @montaukseafoodcompany , crostini of sardines, butter, and @sylvestermanoreducationalfarm tomatoes. Chicken liver mousse and wild strawberries with balsamic pearls. Jambon de Bayonne with eggplant caviar and a toasted @carissasthebakery olive sourdough rubbed with heirloom tomatoes and cloves of garlic. Snacks were truffle potato chips, bergamotes de Nancy, Brie de meaux and Coté d’or 86% dark chocolate. Of course, this was an appropriate table for figs and cigs. Thank you to @noeldelesseps @max_levai @meganakincaid & @theranch.art for this wonderful evening. Shot by @olivrrrr