Since Plato’s Symposium, the bond between celebration and cerebration — especially the conversational kind — has gained a place in serious intellectual thought. Victore’s Dinner Series, Oct. 10–14, put a lot less emphasis on the serious … and, he says, was as provocative as his well-known art and design — “five glorious days of pure, unbridled creative abandon.” Five brave souls signed up for the series and were rewarded in conversation, food, insights … also what Victore describes as “pee your pants-level surprises” from the likes of Adrian Shaughnessy, Stefan Sagmeister and photographer Robert Adams.
Warning: Other fluids were involved, as well as kinetic factors and carnivorous behavior. “There were tears shed, brainpower unleashed, vermouth drunk, passions ignited, and gargantuan ideas flying all over the place. Every evening threatened to one-up the night before, with Tom Schierlitz’ gorgeous Tribeca loft [where the dinners took place], the live flamenco guitarist, full glasses of Rioja, an entire roasted suckling pig, sublime ricotta and fresh figs, amazing heartfelt conversations with Chip Kidd, Debbie Millman, Scott Belsky, Joshua Davis and Hillman Curtis ….
“We have come through the other side changed — a little more raw, a lot more full, and ready to take on the world.” The best part, Victore adds, is that this is only the beginning — preparations for the 2012 Dinner Series are under way — get updates.
Here are behind-the-scenes photos from the experience, and comments from participants.
At work in Victore’s studio, where every day’s session began (James Victore front right).
“It was more than I hoped it would be. You are all amazing.” — A.G., Texas
A surprise visit via Skype with Adrian Shaughnessy
“The level of passion this past week … was incredible and addictive to be around.” — O.R., New York
Chip Kidd with the troops
Debbie Millman pays a visit and interviews the guests.
“I’m having withdrawal symptoms.” — E.H., North Carolina
What the chef saw
“When all was settled down yesterday evening, my wife looked at me and said, ‘You’re different. You’re happy.’ I swear I teared up there and then. … And I thank you for changing my future.” — J.N., Washington
In the studio, a history lesson
“I feel intoxicated from all the creative energy, passion and courage that was summoned every day in Victore’s home. It was a privilege to fail successfully and repeatedly with all of you, and I definitely left hungry for more!” — J.Z., Colombia
The filmmaker Hillman Curtis (end of table) at the wine tasting
“There was a vibe last night I rarely get to experience. Everyone was psyched to have participated in the first of what is clearly something special … meant to grow and to be culturally impactful.” — Hillman Curtis
