Questions Answered: Do I need a master in Food Design? Francesca VS Ai
Last week I received a question from Eve:
Do you think a Masters Degree in Food Design is needed for a career in Food Design? I am really interested in this career sector but am struggling with the costs of Masters degrees. Thanks from Eve :)
Thank you for your question Eve!
Here is my answer:
I am pleased to address this question, as it is both interesting and potentially controversial, depending on whom one asks. The response, in my view, is both affirmative and negative; it largely depends on the circumstances.
To begin with, I would recommend pursuing a master’s degree in Food Design if one aims to establish a career within a company, particularly in the food industry. This is because, in general, companies today tend to prefer candidates with a master’s degree. While there are exceptions to this, and I am speaking in broad terms, a master's degree is likely beneficial for one seeking such a career path.
Conversely, it may not be necessary to obtain a master’s degree in Food Design if one intends to work as a freelancer or entrepreneur. In this context, one could indeed become a food product designer or an eating designer, working independently without the need for a master’s degree.
Having said that, a master program could be helpful to broaden one's perspective, allow for networking, aid personal growth, teach research skills, etc.
Now consider this: Food Design has two parts, food and Design. Knowledge about food can be obtained for every project, as each time the information needed might be different. The type of projects one might do is so vast that no-one could ever acquire all the possible food knowledge and skills available. One might work on a patisserie project one day and on something entirely different another day. The necessary food knowledge and skills can be learned for each project, after all research is a fundamental part of any project. Additionally, and commonly, one should collaborate with individuals who already possess the required expertise.
On the other hand, Design knowledge and skills, even though they can also be outsourced (i.e. consultancies), are most functional when embedded into the ways of doing and thinking of those doing Design. It is best, in my opinion, for the those who are doing the project themselves to be familiar with their Design process. Therefore, if one has a background in Design, a master in Food Design might not be needed. And, if one doesn’t have a background in Design, one can acquire and learn a Design process. Such a process can be learnt in an academic setting, but also in other educational contexts, maybe faster and cheaper. What is important is having a Design process one feels at ease with, and having enough experience with it to be familiar with its facilitation and the decision making embedded in it.
Having an established and familiar Design process will significantly simplify the work. Although it is possible to outsource the Design process, it is far more effective when one is already well-versed in one's own creative approach. For instance, as a consultant in Food Design Thinking, I bring the Food Design Thinking methodology to companies, teaching them this methodology and process. While one can indeed outsource this process (like working with me as a consultant, for example, where I facilitate the process), it is much more advantageous for those doing the project in the company, to be familiar with and comfortable using their own creative process.
In my own practice, when I work with companies or teach the Food Design Thinking methodology, I introduce it to the company or students, I have them experience the process, and we discuss its principles, approaches, and therefore its methodology. I ensure they become familiar with the process and can subsequently design in complete autonomy. Unlike some consultants, I do not design for companies; rather, I find it crucial that the designers themselves — or “those conducting the project”, if they’re hesitant to call themselves designers without having a formal degree — are well-acquainted with the creative process. I personally engage with the company’s Design team (or the students), teach the process, help them adapt it to their own style and needs, and then enable them to continue using the process independently. In summary, I would argue that the most important factor in Food Design, or any related role, is to have a solid Design process, and ideally a process tailored specifically to that company and to the completion of Food Design projects.
Now, to address the specific needs of the field. In 2016, I founded the Online School of Food Design, where I offered courses for those who, due to financial or time constraints, are unable to pursue a master’s degree. Given that a master’s degree can take at least a year to complete, these courses provided an alternative path. Currently, there are courses available through the International Centre for Food Design.
In my view, a master’s degree in Food Design is very much useful, but not always necessary. Rather, one needs the flexibility and willingness to acquire Design skills (i.e. a Design process) and the specific food knowledge and skills needed in each project. Each Food Design project will require different food-related skills and knowledge, which can either be acquired or addressed through collaboration with experts in the field.
Have a lovely day and Happy Food Design :)
francesca
Now...
I came to my blog page to make of this answer a blog post and Wix keeps pushing on me the new Ai feature with pop-up windows of eye catching colors. So I clicked on the button to have a look and one of the tools available is to ask this Ai tool to write a blog post. "WHAT?" I find myself silently shouting in my head. "I JUST SPENT 30 MIN WRITING THIS! And I could have answered Eve's question with Ai?"
What I find concerning is the question that constantly pops into my mind: How many articles do I read that have been written by Ai? Will I ever know? Would I be able to know?
So I did a little experiment. I used this Ai tool, asking it to write a blogpost. I used Eve's question as the input and pressed enter. The result came in less than 10 seconds, and it is copied below. Unaltered, unedited, exactly how the Ai conceived it and created it. Have a read.
This is inevitably a comparison... I definitely I compared my answer to this, and I have to say, I think the Ai did a better job than I did! It has a wonderful tone, maybe a few useless generalisations that I think my readers don't need anymore but nothing too bad, and the arguments are solid. AND it even produced images for me!
So what do I learn? Why did I copy paste the Ai's answer too?
I want us to reflect on the nature of thinking, creating, and sharing. On the effort, the time, the struggle of producing a piece of content, maybe one that will be available for free. I think that if those who read are human beings... the writing should be done by human beings.
I will not ask Ai to think for me, create for me, write for me. Eve deserves better.
The debate on the use of Ai is immense and thousands of experts are sharing their view, so I will not discuss the pros and cons (as an Ai tool could do in seconds by the way). But I will share what I personally think: those who choose to invest their time and mental energy to read my words deserve to read my words. Even if they are not as articulate or captivating as that of an Ai tool.
Also... Eve certainly knows by now that she could have asked this question to an Ai tool. But she asked me...
Similarly, one chooses to go on a certain person's blog to read their words, or downloads an article to read that person's opinion, or buys a book to read that person't research. No?
So, with this little exercise I show you what you could have read, I show you what you might read in other blogs. I take the opportunity to reflect on quality and humanness and on how much we want of one and the other.
I also pledge to always answer your questions with my own thinking, my own experience, and my time. So... if you like that, keep asking me.
"The Truth About Master’s Degrees in Food Design: Do You Need One to Thrive?"
written by Ai
Do you have a passion for food that goes beyond just eating it? Are you someone who delights in the artistry of combining flavors, textures, and colors to create not just a meal, but an experience? If so, you might have come across the term "Food Designer." But what exactly is a Food Designer, and more importantly, do you need a master's degree to pursue this tantalizing career path? Let's dig into the delectable world of Food Design to find out!
Understanding the World of Food Design
Food Design is a multidisciplinary field that merges culinary arts, design, psychology, and even science to craft innovative food experiences. It goes beyond the traditional notions of cooking and presentation; it involves storytelling, consumer behavior analysis, sustainability, and much more. A Food Designer is like a culinary artist, using food as their medium to evoke emotions, memories, and connections with the audience.
Do You Really Need a Master's Degree?
The burning question for many aspiring Food Designers is whether a master's degree is necessary to thrive in this field. The answer? It depends. While a master's degree can undoubtedly provide you with valuable skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities, it is not the sole determining factor of success in Food Design.
The Pros of Pursuing a Master's Degree in Food Design
Specialized Knowledge: A master's program can equip you with in-depth knowledge of food science, design principles, consumer trends, and more.
Networking: Building connections with industry professionals, professors, and fellow students can open doors to exciting opportunities.
Research Skills: Master's programs often involve research projects that can enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Credential: Having a master's degree can lend credibility to your expertise and attract potential clients or employers.
The Case for Experience and Passion
On the flip side, many successful Food Designers have carved their niche in the industry through experience, creativity, and an insatiable passion for food. Here's why experience and passion can sometimes outweigh a master's degree:
Hands-On Learning: Practical experience in kitchens, restaurants, or food-related businesses can provide invaluable insights and skills.
Creativity: Food Design is as much about creativity, innovation, and storytelling as it is about formal education.
Adaptability: The food industry is constantly evolving, and being adaptable and willing to learn on the job can be equally crucial.
Finding Your Recipe for Success
So, what's the verdict? While a master's degree can undoubtedly boost your credentials and expertise, it is not a strict requirement for becoming a successful Food Designer. The key ingredients for success in this field are a blend of skills, experience, creativity, and passion.
Final Food for Thought
Whether you choose to pursue a master's degree, dive headfirst into the world of Food Design with hands-on experience, or combine the two approaches, remember that the essence of Food Design lies in your ability to tantalize taste buds, stir emotions, and create unforgettable culinary experiences. So, unleash your creativity, experiment fearlessly, and savor the journey to becoming a Food Designer extraordinaire!
In the realm of Food Design, the canvas is edible, and the possibilities are as vast as the palette of flavors waiting to be explored. Whether you choose the academic path, the experiential route, or a delicious blend of both, let your love for food guide you on this delectable journey!
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