Fish in a pond

Watercolour of Koi, 30cm x 40cm

I took some reference photos of fish in a pond at Wimpole Hall, with a view to trying out the watercolour methods of Cheng-Khee Chee. This masterful painter starts with an abstract background and then lifts out the lighter areas of the koi.

The first stage of dropping in paint and letting the colours mingle was really quite enjoyable. When next placing my fish, I was looking for a circular movement and let the composition happen organically.

Of course, my effort does not even come close to Cheng-Khee Chee's masterpieces, but I am nonetheless quite pleased with the result.