Page 70 - Koi Net - On-Line Koi Magazine - Issue 30

Full Size 30" × 40" pencil design.
Eyes and fin markings.
All scales drawn.
Starting with the white bases of the Koi. First layer of highlighting the scales. Highlighting the scales and amost finished.
After James’ approval, Keith painted 4 layers of black
for the background on the canvas, then transferred on
the Koi line drawing. The Koi shapes were then filled in
with 4 layers of white acrylic paint and once dry, Keith
drew in the eyes and fin details before painting the base
colour markings.
“THE PAINTING For the next stage Keith mapped out the scales. Each
scale was drawn at least twice to reach the quality
IS EVEN BETTER Keith aims for, firstly, he sketched them lightly then
IN REAL-LIFE!” drew over them strongly a second time. Having done all
this work, it may seem odd, but Keith then paints over
the scales with more base colours until you can barely
Base markings.
see them.
Now Keith meticulously paints the details and highlights
of the markings using small brushes. Each scale is
painted approximately 10 times and Keith feels this is
when the character of the Koi evolves.
With the details complete there is still something
missing. Keith adds shading and some final details to
make the Koi ‘come alive’ and give a 3-Dimensional
look to the finished painting.
The canvas is then satin varnished for protection and
strung on the back ready for hanging.
Despite sending James regular updates, when
receiving the finished painting he was shocked how
Overlaying the scales with more base colours.
lifelike the representations of his Koi were, stating
“The painting is even better in real-life!”.
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