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Process

Material Selection and Preparation
A rich variety of hues and textures is achieved through several techniques. Some grains are carefully roasted over low heat for several hours to develop natural tones, while others are painted with watercolor. In select pieces, parboiled rice is used for its beautiful translucency, revealing colors beneath the surface.

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Adhesion and Placement
Each grain of rice is meticulously placed by hand with tweezers. The paintings are typically completed in small sections, using tile adhesive (thinset) or acrylic gel medium to securely bond each grain in place.

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Sealing and Finishing
Once the piece is complete, the surface is sealed with multiple coats of acrylic gel medium to protect the rice and preserve the integrity of the work. A final layer of matte UV varnish is applied to safeguard the piece from light exposure and environmental wear.

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Ongoing Exploration
Alongside these established techniques, ongoing experimentation continues to expand the possibilities of rice as a medium — exploring new textures, surfaces, and mark-making methods to evolve the practice.

Various types of rice

Roasting the rice

144 Hours of Time-lapse for Bite-Sized Joy (Rice Cake 2023)

Individually placed grains

Multiple layers of acrylic gel medium for extra bonding, seal, and protection. 
Matte varnish finish for UV Protection 

 © 2025 Soo Kim Yung, All Rights Reserved

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