unofficial fish of the week artwork

Magnus_Bane

Redtail Catfish
MFK Member
Jan 26, 2020
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Canton SD
Coelacanths live for so long! They are the tortoise of the fish family in every which way.
But tortoises can't swim... Oh no..... They're all gonna drown!!! Everyone quick get in your boats and let's "rescue" some endangered species.

Lol sorry couldn't resist saying that when ya brought up the word tortoise. But yes they totally are. Just goes to show that nature can throw out some almost bulletproof animal designs tho.
 

esoxlucius

Balaclava Bot Butcher
MFK Member
Dec 30, 2015
3,917
15,019
194
UK
Latest piece. I came across this by accident and just had to draw it. I knew some species of frogs were colourful but this little guy blew me away, I just had to draw it.

IMG_20210627_110607_HDR.jpg
 

esoxlucius

Balaclava Bot Butcher
MFK Member
Dec 30, 2015
3,917
15,019
194
UK
How long does it take to draw each piece?
Typically 4 or 5 hours work for each piece. Not all in one sitting though, I'll just do an hour here and there when I'm in the mood.

The basic outline, the main sketch, literally takes minutes. It's colouring them that takes the time up. Layering, blending, highlighting, detailing, taking shadows and tonal variances in colour into account.

It all made me realise very quickly that my old eyes weren't up to the job, hence my new glasses. But to be honest I still struggle with the fine work. I think I'd benefit from one of those huge manoeverable magnifying glasses on a stand that model hobbyists use.
 
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esoxlucius

Balaclava Bot Butcher
MFK Member
Dec 30, 2015
3,917
15,019
194
UK
Latest piece. I was inspired to do this fish after watching a nature programme the other night. As far as nature boffins are aware this is the only species of fish that is known to use tools. It finds clams, takes them to a rock and breaks them open by bashing them against the rock. Clever fish. Does anyone know what it is?

IMG_20210705_205046_HDR.jpg
 
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