Merienda and Tambay (Afternoon Tea and Hang Out)

ACE invites you to spend an afternoon feasting with artist Alyssa Powell-Ascura, emerging curator Chira Grasby, and Shared Skin Curator, Rayleen Forester.

Taking its cue from Jumana Manna’s film Foragers Powell-Ascura will host a relaxed merienda (afternoon tea) exploring and discussing food as a tool for cultural preservation and continuation.

Participants are encouraged to bring a family heirloom or food related item, and a story they are happy to share with the group regarding it, or they can simply observe and listen along.

This participatory table conversation invites attendees to share their own personal stories of food and family, in an open and inclusive setting. 

Building on Powell-Ascura's performance and video work Kain Tayo (Let’s Eat) (2024–ongoing), the afternoon merienda aims to foster meaningful dialogue where memories of family recipes, migration, and cultural traditions can unfold organically. 

Whether speaking, listening, or simply snacking, participants are encouraged to reflect on how food connects us to our histories, shaping our shared identity and belonging across generations.

Support

This project is supported by Arts South Australia and Mama Sita's.

Image: Kamayan: Alyssa Powell-Ascura (2024), workshop documentation, The Mill Adelaide. Courtesy the artist.