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Something Smells Fishy

Watercolor painting has been around for centuries, and fish have been a popular subject for artists since the beginning. Early watercolor paintings of fish were often detailed and realistic, and they often served as scientific illustrations. As watercolor painting evolved, artists began to experiment with more expressive and abstract techniques. Today, there are many different styles of watercolor painting fish, from the realistic to the abstract.



A painting, lying on the table, of two koi fish lying in a pond.
Koi fish painted with watercolours


Watercolor painted fish are a beautiful and popular subject for artists of all levels. The medium is perfect for capturing the delicate details and vibrant colors of fish, and there are many different techniques that can be used to create stunning results.


Tips for watercolour painting fish:


  • Use a variety of brushes. A small round brush is perfect for painting the details of the fish, such as the eyes and fins. A larger brush can be used for washing in the background color.


  • Experiment with different colors. Fish come in a wide variety of colors, so don't be afraid to experiment with different shades and hues.


  • Use watercolor paper. Watercolor paper is specially designed to absorb water and prevent the paint from bleeding.


  • Let the paint dry completely before adding new layers. If you add new paint to wet paint, it will bleed and create a muddy mess.


  • Use a damp brush to blend colors. This will create a smooth transition between colors.


  • Use masking tape to create sharp lines. This is a great technique for painting fish with stripes or other patterns.


  • Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Watercolors are a forgiving medium, so don't be afraid to experiment and try new things.


Work from light to dark. This will help you to preserve the details of the fish. Use a reference photo. This will help you to ensure that your fish are anatomically correct. Don't be afraid to experiment. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to watercolor painting. So don't be afraid to try new things and see what works. Watercolor painted fish are a beautiful and rewarding subject for artists of all levels. With a little practice, anyone can create stunning paintings of these fascinating creatures.

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