I’m currently working on a watercolor piece for my food series, inspired by Taiwan’s beloved braised pork rice (滷肉飯). This painting captures more than just the dish ,it holds a personal memory from my trip.
The centerpiece is a steaming bowl of rich, savory pork belly, glistening in layers of warm browns and caramel hues, with the sauce soaking into the fluffy white rice beneath. I’m using soft, blended washes to create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth feel, while sharper, detailed strokes bring out the texture of the meat and rice grains.
Before returning to Singapore, I stamped this piece with a Taiwanese chop ,a small, red seal representing authenticity and a piece of my journey. I ended up stamping a few times on the page to make sure the impression was clear and vibrant. The chop adds a traditional, personal touch, blending travel memories with art.
The background is kept minimal, letting the bowl take center stage. Soft hints of warm tones echo the cozy, bustling street food stalls where this dish is a staple, evoking the comforting aroma that lingers in the air.
Braised Pork Rice
This piece isn’t just about the food , it’s about the feeling of sitting at a tiny table, chopsticks in hand, savoring a simple, soulful meal that represents the heart of Taiwanese cuisine.
So far, I’ve completed three pieces, each capturing the vibrant, comforting spirit of Taiwanese street food culture.
Inspired by the lively streets of Jiufen
A refreshing Taiwanese dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious.
I’m still working on refining the final details ,balancing the light washes, bringing out the highlights, and making sure each dish looks as mouthwatering as it felt in person.
Would you like me to describe how I plan to present the series as a whole , maybe framed together or displayed like a menu of Taiwanese flavors?
