"Curious Koi"
Original on Arches watercolor paper.
Image size: 18 inches wide by 27 inches tall
In Japan, the Koi (Carp) is considered a symbol of happiness, good fortune and prosperity. In China, it is a symbol of strength, courage, perseverance, ambition and determination. Fish swimming up the Yellow River in China must go through a series of waterfalls called the Dragon Gate. Those that manage to overcome the obstacles are transformed into mighty dragons and go on to live for eternity. Legend says the only fish that achieved that feat is the Koi (Carp). There is a saying in China "Koi leaps the Dragon Gate" that allegorizes the ambition and perseverance of scholars who take the Imperial exams coming out victorious in the end.
Original on Arches watercolor paper.
Image size: 18 inches wide by 27 inches tall
In Japan, the Koi (Carp) is considered a symbol of happiness, good fortune and prosperity. In China, it is a symbol of strength, courage, perseverance, ambition and determination. Fish swimming up the Yellow River in China must go through a series of waterfalls called the Dragon Gate. Those that manage to overcome the obstacles are transformed into mighty dragons and go on to live for eternity. Legend says the only fish that achieved that feat is the Koi (Carp). There is a saying in China "Koi leaps the Dragon Gate" that allegorizes the ambition and perseverance of scholars who take the Imperial exams coming out victorious in the end.