At red., we’re always looking for ways to create space for connection, storytelling, and shared experiences, and (un)folding came from exactly that place. Rooted in a feeling of homesickness, it was imagined as a moment to slow down and bring people together over something deeply personal: food, culture, and the rituals that connect us to where we come from.
Growing up in a multicultural home Karen and Michel Liu were shaped by both Peruvian and Taiwanese influences, food has always carried meaning beyond what’s on the plate. It’s a way of passing down stories, preserving culture, and nurturing connection across generations. The ritual of folding dumplings, in particular, holds a special place for them. Passed from grandmother to mother to child, it’s a practice built on patience, care, and time spent together. Sitting around a table, folding dumplings becomes less about the end result and more about the conversations, the memories shared, and the quiet act of being present with one another.
With (un)folding, we wanted to translate that feeling into a shared experience, so we gathered for an intentional pause from the pace of everyday life. An opportunity to work with our hands, connect with others, and rediscover the value of slowing down. Over 25 people joined us, many stepping into the space on their own, open to meeting new people and embracing something unfamiliar.
During the workshop, everyone learned the art of folding dumplings, creating handmade pieces they could take home and share with their own communities, extending the experience beyond the day itself.
What stayed with us most was the energy in the room. Conversations unfolded naturally, people showed up with openness and curiosity, and genuine connections were formed. It was a reminder that creating space, however simple, can lead to something meaningful when it’s built with intention.
We’re grateful to Bao Mao for adding a thoughtful touch to the goodie bags, and to Atelier Code Noir for the welcoming environment.
Images by Indy Koele and Johanna Sheferaw.
