Santander hosts “Mirada de Chef,” an exhibition by chef Jesús Sánchez, which will debut at the Galería Juan Silió on 29 August as part of the PHotoEspaña festival. This photographic project offers an introspective view of haute cuisine and will donate the proceeds to Cáritas Diocesana de Santander, an organisation with 60 years of commitment to those in need in Cantabria.
In ‘Mirada de Chef’, Jesús Sánchez, renowned for his work at Cenador de Amós in Cantabria and holder of three Michelin stars, combines his passion for gastronomy with his love of photography. Using a Leica Q2 Monochrom, Sánchez captures in black and white leading figures of the kitchen in moments of authenticity. The series, which includes portraits of chefs such as Alberto Chicote, Paco Morales, Dabiz Muñoz and Joan Roca, offers an intimate perspective that goes beyond the public image, revealing their humanity.
Alongside his distinguished culinary career, Jesús Sánchez has nurtured a deep passion for photography since childhood. His interest in this art form began with a Kodak camera, and since then, he has captured his family, friends, travels, and everyday aspects of his work in gastronomy, including ingredients and markets. At Cenador de Amós, Sánchez has integrated this passion into his diners’ experience, showcasing a rotating display of eight of his own photographs in the restaurant’s hallway.
Each image in “Mirada de Chef” reveals a personal facet of its subjects, showcasing their essence and authentic connection in settings that contrast with their public image. The exhibition is noted for its ability to capture spontaneity and naturalness, presenting chefs in environments that reflect their true character.
The series, consisting of 51 photographs on display, is presented in black and white. While colour plays a significant role in the culinary world, “Mirada de Chef” eliminates it to highlight the faces, gestures, attitudes, and atmosphere projected by some of the leading names in international haute cuisine in dialogue with Jesús Sánchez. Though he does not appear in the images, Sánchez is still present, having skillfully “cooked” the perfect moment for his Leica shot—whether strolling, conversing, or sharing a drink—when the subject of the photograph has faded, leaving just two friends catching up.
For Jesús Sánchez, ““Mirada de Chef” is an intimate exercise, a way to get closer to my colleagues, many of whom are good friends. We share many experiences, dreams, and concerns. Adversity unites us just as much as moments of celebration do. It is also true that the image we project is sometimes sugar-coated and other times distorted by the echoes of fame, which involves a great deal of work, dedication, effort, and worries. While this image is undoubtedly very close to us, it is clear that it is far from being the full picture of who we are. And that is what interests me.”
The exhibition will be available to the public until the end of September, offering a unique opportunity to explore the essence of cuisine through the lens of one of Spain’s leading chefs.
