On October 13, the JPF was proud to support, through the Jacques Pepin Legacy Fund, the installation of a bronze statue of Jacques on Stone Acres Farm, in Stonington, CT. The bust was created by internationally renowned Zenos Frudakis, mounted on pink Stony Creek, CT granite and accompanied by casts of Jacques’ hands, and a sculpture by Jacques himself on an original metal work pedestal by Josh Hadar. The installation is a permanent tribute to this iconic chef, educator and humanitarian. The public is welcome to visit the statue at the farm.
The day was New England, fall, perfect. Farm activities and games, an artisan market, music by the Pat McGee Band and food by James Wayman and 85th Day Food Community, set the stage for the unveiling of the installation, outside the door of the Yellow Farmhouse Education Center. Nearly 200 friends and family came together and raised a glass of champagne to celebrate Jacques, and his deep and wide influence on cooking and culinary arts. The event, which included a cocktail reception and formal dinner, was also a fundraiser benefitting the Yellow Farmhouse Education Center. The YFEC offers classes to children and teachers on food and farming. It seems perfectly fitting that these students, when taking a break from learning about food, will be playing at the feet of Jacques Pepin.
We are so grateful to the many individuals and organizations who came together to support this multi-year project, and extraordinary event, and to our friends and family who joined with us to celebrate Jacques on this special day. Thank you!
