SPICE STALL at Chinatown Complex Wet Market

Wet markets in Asia are integral part of our food and social culture. These markets are where you can get the freshest meats, vegetables and a mind blogging variety of spices. Apparently you can still find live frogs and eels at this market.

Last weekend I decided to revisit this particular wet market at Chinatown Complex and try some indoor sketching. This basement market has a dry and wet section. It was difficult to find a sitting spot at the wet section (this is where you find the fishmongers and butchers) so I ended up at the spices and dried goods section. I found an empty bench and a wonderful view.

My sketching process

The owner is a really friendly and curious man. He came over a few times to check the progress of my sketching and gave a several approval nods before rushing back to tend to his customers. When I showed him my half completed sketch, he quickly told me he used to dabble in art and even tried ice sculpting. Perhaps I should give him a sketchbook to help reignite his passion for drawing. I told him I will be back to sketch and record his stall again. Looking forward to hear more of his story.