As if performing on stage, koi swirl and pirouette in a dark pond, their golden fins and gauzy tails shimmering ephemeral color through the depths of still blue water. Golden bodies weave and dance an intricate pattern above, then break the surface to dive deep into mystery in an aquatic ballet of color below. I used metallic pigments to highlight both fish and water-- the soft sparkle lends a sense of magic to this painted story. This moment could be straight from the pages of a lovely fairy tale, which is how I felt when I watched these fish moving so gracefully through their small universe of water.

Enclosed by rocks colored in ambers and rusts, water softly splashes down into the pond, endlessly trickling gentle breaks in the tranquil water. The sun-warmed rocks hold you in this scene, barely above water level, as well as containing the graceful school of koi. This unusual perspective invites you to bask in light, color, and life beyond our own dry realm. A thoughtful addition to any space that craves a touch of elegance and reflective calm, this painted story is perfect for anyone who finds joy and inspiration in serene beauty.