British artist Olivia Sterling paints all sorts of bodies having fun with food. These bodies, whether slim or fat, black, brown, or white, masculine, feminine, or intersex, are all consuming and lathering themselves in cakes and chocolates without a care in the world. On the surface, these paintings can easily be read as a celebration of having a positive body image and a healthy relationship with food.
On a deeper level, these paintings also portray a utopia—a wish for a place where everyone has plenty of access to food—not just food security, but also food abundance to the point that they can share and indulge in it. This is why paintings by Olivia Sterling are relevant to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of Gender Equality and Zero Hunger.
The 2024 Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) has reported that in 2023, between nearly 282 million people or roughly 21.5 percent of the analyzed population in 59 countries/territories have faced high levels of acute food insecurity, to the point where the only way out is to rely on food and livelihood assistance. Looking at 2022, the number had only increased by 24 million, showing an upwards trend with no signs of slowing down. The report had also identified three key drivers of food insecurity: extreme weathers that led to crops failing, economic shocks as people navigate a post-pandemic economic crisis, and armed conflicts in multiple parts of the word. These are all reasons why it is important for Olivia Sterling’s artworks to portray a better future where no one has to live hungry.
Meanwhile, a similar upwards trend can be found when looking at the global eating disorder prevalence, a number that has increased from 3.5 percent in the year 2000 to 7.8 percent in 2018. This is the other side of the coin, another reason behind why it is important that people see depictions of other people, from a wide variety of backgrounds, enjoying food without shame or guilt.
Olivia Sterling’s paintings offer a vibrant and inclusive celebration of food and body positivity, depicting diverse bodies joyfully indulging in cakes and chocolates. On one level, her work encourages a healthy relationship with food and a positive body image for everyone, regardless of size, race, or gender. On a deeper level, these paintings envision a utopian world where food abundance is a reality for all, not just a privileged few. Her playful yet powerful images remind everyone of the importance of striving for a future where all can enjoy the simple, universal pleasure of food without fear or guilt.
Find out more about paintings and other pieces by Olivia Aster on her Instagram @oliviaster.