The way we consume and acculturate food reveals our upbringings, the cultures we experience and the habits we form. Childhood Leftovers reflects upon my childhood, painting a portrait of my family through the subject matter of food. Centered around a life-size painting of a fridge, the series uses the everyday appliance to reveal the intricacies of the Lim household. The arrangement of colourful tupperware, alongside Chinese & Western staples, illustrates both acceptance & dissonance. Additionally, as it is inspired by food styling, the centerpiece is accompanied by six smaller paintings of items found inside – each one styled to tell a specific story. From unconventional methods of discipline to the desire to fit in, specific behaviours or milestones are examined. All things considered, Childhood Leftovers recognizes how food can impact one’s growth and their connection to a culture.
