World Food Forum Launches Art Initiative to Explore Agrifood Systems
Rome, Friday, 31 October 2025.
The World Food Forum’s ‘Beyond the Plate’ initiative uses art to foster cultural diplomacy and dialogue on sustainable agrifood practices, engaging diverse communities for a more sustainable future.
Cultural Diplomacy Through Art
The World Food Forum Youth Initiative, in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of Germany to the United Nations Agencies in Rome, has initiated ‘Beyond the Plate,’ a project designed to explore agrifood systems through the medium of art. The initiative was launched at the 2025 World Food Forum flagship event held at the Food and Agriculture Organization headquarters in Rome, Italy. This art exhibition, featuring works by Berlin-based artist Johanna Dreyer, aims to foster cultural diplomacy and dialogue by connecting artistic expression with sustainable agrifood practices [1].
Art as a Medium for Sustainable Dialogue
Johanna Dreyer, a renowned figurative oil painter, is known for her immersive compositions that employ bold colors and surreal imagery. Her recent series of figurative collages strategically places fruits and vegetables in curated settings, prompting viewers to explore the interconnectedness of culture, identity, and nourishment. These artworks are intended to open a dialogue on how perceptions of food are shaped in a rapidly changing world, thereby supporting the broader mission of the WFF Youth Initiative to empower youth and foster intergenerational dialogue for a sustainable future [1].
Transformative Role of Art in Agrifood Systems
The ‘Beyond the Plate’ initiative highlights the transformative potential of culture in shaping more equitable and sustainable agrifood systems. By integrating artistic reflection with sustainable practices, the collaboration underscores a shared commitment to strengthening cultural diplomacy and fostering dialogue. This initiative not only raises awareness about the challenges and opportunities within the agrifood sector but also encourages diverse communities to engage in reimagining these systems for a more sustainable future [1].