Julia Child: A Recipe for Life Claimed

Julia Child’s insatiable curiosity and tenacious spirit drove her to endlessly try, test, prove and communicate how to make delicious food. Learning to cook empowered Julia and she in turn empowered others, profoundly transforming American cuisine and food culture.

Key Experiences

• Interactive The French Chef studio kitchen and dining room
• La Couronne restaurant immersive experience
• Larger-than-life Mastering the Art of French Cooking book projection
• Vignette of 1960s television
• “Dear Julia” participatory response interactive
• Convert a recipe from metric to imperial measurements
• Photo Ops throughout the exhibition

Key Exhibition Themes

Julia’s Persistence and Tenacity

Overcoming challenges and embracing failure. Throughout her life, especially in a male-dominated culinary industry, Julia faced many obstacles. However, through her perseverance, Julia found success and enjoyment in her career.

A Lust for Life

Going boldly where curiosity takes you. When Julia’s spark was lit, whether for adventure or for education, she found joy in the experiences that life led her to.

Authenticity

Being unapologetic and true to yourself. In a period when the expectations of women’s domestic responsibilities were clearly defined, Julia broke the mold of society to follow her dreams.

Relationships

Relying on and supporting good team members. While Julia was a self-made culinary icon, she never failed to recognize and appreciate her family, friends, and colleagues as integral supporters of her career.

Specifications:

Space required

3,000 – 5,000 sq ft

Target audience

Adults and families

Freight

2 x 53’ trailers (estimated)

Exhibition tour

Summer 2023 – 2030

Photos of Julia Child – Photography by Paul Child © The Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University