Art, wine, and food come together at the Strange Family Tasting Room in Los Olivos
A multi-sensory community gathering called “Seduction of the Senses” was held from 5 to 8 p.m., Thursday, May 8, at the Strange Family Tasting Room in Los Olivos.
This unique event showcased the collaborative efforts of three local professions: Chef Brittany Rice, artist Michelle Feldman, and apothecary Cassaundra Einolander. The evening was designed to captivate and delight all of the senses. Set within the aesthetically captivating Strange Family Tasting Room, guests enjoyed an evening exploring a multitude of senses. Along with wine tasting and mocktail delights, still-life paintings of Feldman were on exhibit, and small bites by Rice, of Rustik Farm Co., enhanced the taste dimension accompanied by four of the Strange Family’s finest wines. Additionally, Einolander, of Goat Barn Apothecary, presented a selection of herbal remedies and body care.
“I initiated this collaboration, envisioning a holistic sensory experience in an inviting environment for everyone to enjoy,” said Feldman. “This evening promises to be an enchanting journey through taste, smell, feel, and sight.”
Feldman describes what inspired her to form this collaboration.
“When I first entered the Strange Family Tasting Room, I was immediately struck by how closely its atmosphere resonated with my still-life artwork. The jewel tones and classic ambiance perfectly complemented my still-life style. I was so inspired by the space that I created still-life oil paintings of objects in the tasting room that will be displayed the evening of the event,” said Feldman.
“The tasting room permanently features a diverse range of art in a salon-style display, aligning well with my genre,” she continued. “I was thrilled when they agreed to showcase my work and saw an opportunity to curate a larger event that would involve our greater artistic community. From the outset, the tasting room manager, Nicole Nalius, emphasized the importance of the space as a community gathering place. This inspired me to collaborate with other vendors to enhance the sensory experience.”
Feldman said the different senses blend together perfectly in her event.
“I believe viewing art as well as tasting wine are profound sensory experiences, essential for human exploration,” she said. “When you compliment those with additional experiences, they only heighten each other.”
Feldman also praised her partners in this undertaking.
“Bringing in chef Brittany Rice to do the food was an easy fit. Her expertise as the winemaker at Sunstone gives her the unique qualification to create a special food-wine pairing,” she said. “I was also looking to bring in a vendor that explores body care and touch and I was thrilled Cassaundra Einolander from Goat Barn Apothecary, could join. Cassaundra is also a chef and an artist, and she understands the importance of well-being and quality products. Her locally grown and handcrafted herbal wellness products are carefully formulated for an enhanced lifestyle.
“Everything for this event fell easily into place. The community is encouraged to gather during our event. There is no pressure to purchase anything. My hope is that it brings the sensation of joy and good feelings to everyone in attendance.”
Feldman is an accomplished artist who studied the fundamentals of oil painting through the lens of classical realism, focusing on still life, while cultivating a unique style that showcases her passion for paper, text, and the interplay of light and shadow. She views art as an immersive experience that engages the senses, evoking sight, memory, and emotion.
Rice combines culinary mastery with a deep understanding of agriculture wellness, creating a sensory experience that delights the palate.
Goat Barn Apothecary is located on a small family homestead atop Figueroa Mountain. All of its herbs are either organically grown in its garden or sustainably wild-harvested from the family land, carefully hand-processed in small batches to create nourishing wellness products.
The Strange Family Tasting Room features botanical décor and a warm vibe, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation, conversation, and enjoyment.
This event was free to attend, with a limited number of food and wine pairings, that could be purchased in advance by contacting the tasting room at (805) 315-3662.
For more details, visit Michelle Juliet Feldman at www.michellejuliet.com, on Instagram, and Facebook; Rustik Chef at www.rustikchef.com, on Instagram and Facebook; Cassaundra Einolander on Instagram @goat_barn_apothecary; and Strange Family Vineyards at www.strangefamilyvineyards.com
For more information, visit michelle@thegivingink.com or email hello@thegivingink.com
The Strange Family Tasting Room is at 2933 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
