The Artful Cakes of Yip.Studio and A.R.D Bakery
In a world where creativity knows no bounds, the food industry is increasingly becoming a canvas for artistic expression. As professionals from various fields shift careers and venture into the kitchen, we are witnessing a remarkable fusion of aesthetics and flavor elevating the food industry to an even more sophisticated art form. This shift is not only reflecting the change in consumer tastes but also highlighting the ever-growing desire for visually striking food experiences.
Amid this evolution, two extraordinary cake artists – Alison Dunlop of A.R.D Bakery and Amy Yip of Yip.Studio – are redefining what it means to bake a cake. Their journeys from design-centric backgrounds to the world of baking demonstrate how interdisciplinary skills can lead to innovation.
A.R.D Bakery Photo: Alison Dunlop
A.R.D Bakery Photo: Katherine Rose
A.R.D Bakery Photo: Katherine Rose
Based in Glasgow, A.R.D Bakery is the brainchild of Alison Dunlop, who specializes in bespoke cakes and chocolates with a unique, graphic style. After studying sculpture at the Glasgow School of Art, she moved into fashion accessories and completed her MA at the prestigious Royal College of Art. Dunlop spent a decade working in the industry, designing bags, shoes, and jewelry for many high-end brands. Then, while on maternity leave, she decided to experiment with integrating a heavily design-led aesthetic into her love for baking.
A.R.D Bakery Photo: Alison Dunlop
Drawing inspiration from diverse fields – architecture, textiles, and graphic design – Dunlop’s work captures a playful essence, making her cakes true sculptural pieces. Her cakes are visually striking, characterized by bold geometric shapes and vibrant colors that seem to pay homage to both Bauhaus and Memphis. Each creation is a feast for the eyes; the incorporation of hand-painted chocolate work and graphic patterns elevates her desserts beyond mere confections.
Yip.Studio Photo: Amy Yip of Yip.Studio
On the other side of the Atlantic, in Brooklyn, Amy Yip of Yip.Studio is carving her niche in the world of bespoke cakes with an artistic flair that echoes her background in textile and print design. Yip.Studio is known for its unique rock-shaped cakes and Asian-inspired flavors. Operating on a micro scale, each cake is a meticulous labor of love, design, and craft.
Yip.Studio Photo: Amy Yip of Yip.Studio
Yip.Studio Photo: Amy Yip of Yip.Studio
Yip’s cakes are distinguished by their unique color palettes and sculptural qualities, emulating various rock textures adorned with fruit and meticulously arranged flowers. This blend of aesthetic beauty and culinary skill allows her to transform desserts into ephemeral works of art. While her creations come at a premium price, the investment reflects the artistry and expertise that go into every custom piece.
Yip.Studio Photo: Amy Yip of Yip.Studio
Yip.Studio Photo: Amy Yip of Yip.Studio
Yip.Studio Photo: Amy Yip of Yip.Studio
The journeys of Alison Dunlop and Amy Yip exemplify how passion can reshape career paths and lead to unexpected fulfillment. Their unique artistry in cake baking serves as a testament to the broader trend of merging culinary and visual arts. As they continue to push the boundaries of cake design, Dunlop and Yip remind us to celebrate life’s moments in style.
Yip.Studio Photo: Amy Yip of Yip.Studio
For more information on A.R.D Bakery, visit ardbakery.com, and for more on Yip.Studio, visit yipstudionyc.com.
