Art & Design Magazine

Koi Circles

By Artbycedar

Here is my newest addition to my Lotus series: “Koi Circles”

Koi Circles. 24″ x 36″, Oil on Canvas, © 2016 Cedar Lee

The viewer gazes down into the water to see two orange koi fish swimming in a graceful circle around the stem of the fully opened lotus flower whose petals are spread above the water’s surface.

This painting is simultaneously calming and energizing. For a feeling of focus and appreciation, meditate upon the circular movement of the image as you gaze into it.

Koi Circles. 24″ x 36″, Oil on Canvas, © 2016 Cedar Lee

I painted the water in tones of crimson, with violet shadows and yellow highlights. This unnatural palette gives the image a unique artistic flair and a joyful mood.

The painting continues onto the 2.5″ deep edges of the painting. Like all my paintings, seeing it in person is a three-dimensional experience.

Painting wraps around edge: Koi Circles. 24″ x 36″, Oil on Canvas, © 2016 Cedar Lee

The beautiful fish are full of personality. The thick texture of the paint follows their curved bodies and gently billowing fins.

Detail: Koi Circles. 24″ x 36″, Oil on Canvas, © 2016 Cedar Lee

White reflections on the water’s surface hint at the movement beneath.

Detail: Koi Circles. 24″ x 36″, Oil on Canvas, © 2016 Cedar Lee

The center of the blooming lotus flower is raised with thick texture.

Center of Lotus flower: Koi Circles. 24″ x 36″, Oil on Canvas, © 2016 Cedar Lee

Some of the petals overlap one of the leaves, casting a gray-violet shadow.

Lotus petal shadows: Koi Circles. 24″ x 36″, Oil on Canvas, © 2016 Cedar Lee

Koi Circles. 24″ x 36″, Oil on Canvas, © 2016 Cedar Lee


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