All for a Plate of Fish depicts the current struggles affecting Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea amidst fishing ground disputes between the Philippines and China. The fish featured called Galungong makes up an everyday traditional meal for many Filipino families, though with Chinese and Filipino interests in the region clashing, an imbalance between the human cost and the actual cost of fish have escalated.
Taking inspiration from a vanitas still life approach of showcasing contrasting symbols of wealth the plate itself reflects on two stories. The left aspect exhibits the commercial interests of international vessels intruding into Filipino fishing waters while the right aspect represents the humble daily existence of Filipino fishermen sharing the same waters. Traditional Chinese painting style underlays this tension between Chinese and Filipino interests on a plate of food that nourishes many Filipino families. The patterning revolving around the edge of the plate incorporates inspired imagery from both nations. The left side with its pattern is inspired by the Great Wall of China, whereas the right side takes form from traditional Filipino Nipa huts – both representative of civilisations sustained by their fishing practices.
This painting was a finalist at the Splash Contemporary Watercolour Award by McClelland Gallery 2021.