Yin Yang Koi Fish
One of the first hand-sculpted pieces I have created is this remarkable work of art. Using clay as a versatile medium, the koi fish are expertly brought to life as they dynamically create a sense of balance in both symbolism and structure. Each curve and detail of the sculpture captures the essence of the koi, reflecting both beauty and harmony.




As my first sculpting project, I was surprised by how hard it was to work with clay. To challenge myself, I took on a dynamic project: a koi fish that measures 10-15 inches and weighs quite a bit. I started by choosing the right clay to support the detailed scales and fins I had in mind. Each fish needed a careful balance of shape and weight to show movement.
Throughout the shaping process, I learned that patience was key; the clay often had to be reshaped to get the right texture and realism. With each attempt, the koi started to take form, showing the graceful lines typical of these fish. Adding color using acrylics added another layer of complexity.
Developments
Each scale was meticulously hand sculpted and took a considerable amount of time to complete. With patience, I have come to appreciate the importance of focusing on finer details in my work.
Although I could have simply left the fish as smooth as possible, I made a conscious decision to add texture to its surface, aiming to create a more life-like appearance.
Additionally, paint played a crucial role in this process, as it provides not only vibrancy but also the necessary diversity among these individual pieces.