This Valentine’s Day, art and chocolate connoisseurs can indulge in limited edition imagery on tiny artisan chocolate canvases once again. Hedonist Artisan Chocolate’s Art on Chocolate projects are fast becoming a February tradition in Rochester. The company is collaborating with local artist Erica Guilfoyle on what will be their third annual Valentine’s Day truffle collection: TweetHeart.

For the 2011 collection, instead of contacting a single artist directly, Hedonist put out an open call for concept submissions last November. The company received a good deal of quality ideas/ sketches, from art students, established artists and designers. Graphic designer Erica Guilfoyle’s concept stood out above the rest because of its professional execution, universal appeal and adorable imagery.

The TweetHeart collection features a raspberry truffle imprinted with a series of lovebird images. Hedonist Chocolatier Jennifer Posey creates the truffle with raspberries, raspberry liqueur and semi-sweet chocolate. Erica was inspired to create the lovebird images by a legend that says every Valentine’s Day, Mother Nature beckons all the young birds to gather and choose their mates. Once they have chosen their TweetHeart, they fly off together and celebrate with a song. “I was intrigued by the idea of collaborating with Hedonist not only because it lifted me out of the 2D world of stationery, but also because their natural approach to ingredients highlights the organic aspect of this design. Love should be celebrated! And it’s exciting to be able to celebrate through a new medium,” says Erica.

You can taste the chocolate; meet the artist and chocolatiers on February 4, 2011 from 5-8pm at Hedonist Artisan Chocolate’s retail location (in Hedonist Alley at 674 South Avenue, Rochester). This free tasting event is open to the public. Erica’s Valentine’s Day card collection will be on display and available for purchase. For an up-to-date list of additional Hedonist chocolate tastings and events, visit the events page on their website. The TweetHeart Raspberry Chocolate Truffle collection can also be ordered directly from their website.

This is the third Valentine’s chocolate and art collaboration project planned by Hedonist Artisan Chocolates. Their first, “Raspberry Love,” featured local artist Joe Guy Allard for Valentine’s Day 2008. Last year’s “1OVE” collection by Christina Nitche was completely sold out by Valentine’s Day. Hedonist’s owners see these collaborations as a way to take their chocolate to another level, as well as bring attention to local artists. “Working with artists outside the food industry is always a rewarding experience; it provides a continuous source of inspiration and gives us the opportunity to see chocolate in a new light,” says Zahra Langford, Hedonist co-owner.

Additional Information
Hedonist chocolate truffles are available for purchase at their kitchen and retail location at 674 South Avenue or online at hedonistchocolates.com. They can also be purchased at Parkleigh on Park Avenue, Mise en Place Market and Coffee Connection on South Avenue, Max Market on Monroe Avenue and Ravines Wine Cellars in Hammondsport. At the Hedonist kitchen and Parkleigh, chocophiles can create their own custom assortment at the chocolate counter. Prices range from $12-$34 per box. Hedonist also does business gifts, event favors, party platters, gift boxes and private chocolate tastings.

For more information about Hedonist Artisan Chocolates, visit www.hedonistchocolates.com or contact Jennifer Posey at (585) 461-2815.
Hedonist Artisan Chocolates hand crafts truffles and chocolate treats with French chocolate and fresh, natural ingredients. Each piece of Hedonist chocolate has a character all its own because it is rolled, cut, dipped and decorated by human hands in small batches. A hedonist is someone whose life is devoted to the pursuit of sensual pleasures. Owners Jennifer Posey and Zahra Langford find their bliss in chocolate and hope to help you do the same.

Erica Guilfoyle began her graphic design work in 2009 while planning her wedding. In early 2010 she founded Peacock Printing, specializing in custom special event stationery. Erica’s designs focus on a colorful, modern aesthetic, while incorporating traditional elements to suit any type of event. You can find her work on her website, peacock-printing.com