In a historic milestone for the world of edible art, Pune has been appointed as an Associate Artist at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS). She is the first Indian cake and royal icing artist to receive such a prestigious appointment, bridging the worlds of culinary creativity and academic research.
The Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, renowned for its scholarship in Hindu philosophy, culture, and history, has traditionally engaged with visual and performance arts. Pune’s appointment signals a groundbreaking recognition of edible art as a legitimate medium of cultural and artistic expression within academic and cultural research frameworks.
Known for her intricate designs and mastery of royal icing techniques, Pune has transformed cakes into detailed, visually stunning representations of Hindu mythology, festivals, and cultural motifs. Her work not only delights the eye but also serves as a tangible exploration of heritage and storytelling through food.
Academics and cultural experts highlight that her appointment reflects a broader trend of integrating contemporary and unconventional art forms into scholarly discourse. It acknowledges the cultural significance of culinary artistry and its role in preserving and interpreting traditions in innovative ways.
Pune expressed her excitement at the opportunity, stating that the appointment allows her to merge creativity with research, inspiring new dialogues between culinary arts and cultural scholarship. This recognition marks a significant step forward for edible art and positions Pune as a pioneering figure in both artistic and academic circles.
