The history of the latte art revolution can be traced back to Italian cafes in the 1980s. Initially, baristas there started creating simple designs like hearts or flowers using milk foam on top of their espressos. However, the phenomenon really gained global popularity in the early 21st century.
Latte art is becoming increasingly popular in cafes around the world as a way to enhance the presentation of coffee. The technique involves creating beautiful images or patterns by pouring hot or frothed milk into espresso. Baristas are now competing to create increasingly intricate and creative designs, covering everything from handwriting to reproductions of famous art.
Over time, latte art has become not just about aesthetics, but also a symbol of craftsmanship and creativity in the coffee industry. From Italy to the rest of the world, latte art has changed the way we enjoy and appreciate a cup of coffee.
Latte Art Making Technique
Creating innovative latte art involves a number of specialized techniques that require practice and expertise. Here are some of the key techniques:
1. Milk Serving Technique
– Choose a good milk to create a soft and thick foam.
– Heat the milk to the right temperature, ideally between 60-70°C.
– Blend the milk with the espresso machine’s steam wand to create the right foam texture.
2. Drawing Technique
– Start by making a simple circle or heart as a base.
– Practice hand skills and milk flow control to create fine lines and details.
– Use pouring techniques with different heights to create different effects and patterns.
3. Practice Routine
– Practice latte art regularly to improve skills and speed.
– Experiment with different designs and styles to develop your own unique style.
4. Creativity and Innovation
– Try incorporating other art elements, such as creating drawings or patterns inspired by famous artworks.
– Explore with fluid techniques such as etching to add additional details.
5. Exercise By Customer Request
– Apply your skills according to customer requests, such as creating a special character or logo.
Through a combination of technical skills, creativity, and consistent practice, baristas can create impressive and enticing latte art innovations.
Latte Art Revolution
The development of latte art in the coffee world has been an interesting and profound phenomenon. Here are some aspects of that development:
1. Global Popularity
Latte art has spread globally, not just limited to cafes in Italy. Today, almost every cafe around the world offers latte art as part of the coffee experience.
2. Latte Art Competition
The rise of latte art competitions helped raise the bar and creativity in this art. Baristas from all over the world compete to create increasingly complex and interesting designs.
3. Technique and Style Innovation
Baristas are constantly developing new techniques, such as the use of various tools to draw and create more intricate designs.
Latte art styles have also evolved over time, with the introduction of new patterns and exploration of contemporary art.
4. Social Media Influence
Social media has played a key role in accelerating the popularity of latte art. Baristas and coffee enthusiasts can easily share their artwork, creating trends and inspiring others.
5. Increased Consumer Awareness
Consumers are now more conscious of aesthetics in coffee serving. The demand for beautiful latte art has encouraged baristas to continuously improve their skills.
6. Latte Art as a Café Differentiator
Cafes that prioritize latte art have an added attraction for customers. Latte art is a way to distinguish the quality and uniqueness of a cafe.
The development of latte art has not only created trends in the coffee world, but also celebrated the creative expression and craftsmanship of baristas. It has become an integral part of modern coffee culture, offering a visually appealing experience that brings coffee drinks to life.
The role of the Barista
The role of the barista in the modern coffee world is not just limited to serving drinks, but also includes the creation of art through latte art. Here are the ways in which baristas and latte art are becoming mesmerizing expressions of art in modern coffee culture:
1. Barista Skills
Baristas are not just coffee drinkers, but also artists behind the espresso machine. They master the technical skills to produce the perfect espresso and frothy milk for latte art.
2. Creation of Visual Experience
Latte art adds a visual dimension to the coffee experience. The barista creates a beautiful design on the surface of the drink, providing an aesthetic plus.
3. Creative Expression
Latte art is a medium of creative expression for baristas. They can create diverse designs, ranging from simple patterns to more complex works of art.
4. Beverage Personalization
Baristas can customize latte art according to customer preferences, creating a more personalized and unique experience every time someone orders coffee.
5. Café Attraction
Cafes that have baristas with high latte art skills are an attraction in themselves. Visitors not only enjoy delicious coffee but also experience an interesting visual aspect.
6. Competition and Prestige
Latte art competitions help raise the barista’s skill level and creativity. The prestige associated with being able to create impressive latte art is an important factor in the coffee industry.
7. Social Media and Trends
Latte art has become the perfect material for sharing on social media. Baristas and customers gleefully share their latte art creations, creating trends and inspiring others.
As such, the role of the barista and the latte art phenomenon is not just a technical aspect of coffee making, but also an art form enjoyed by coffee lovers and an integral part of modern coffee culture.
Source:
https://ottencoffee.co.id/majalah/5-hal-yang-perlu-kamu-ketahui-tentang-latte-art
https://www.google.com/amp/s/lifestyle.okezone.com/amp/2015/02/21/298/1108670/apa-itu-latte-art
