John Banovich
The Colors of Koi, 2019
oil on belgian linen
16h x 20w in
40.64h x 50.80w cm
I constantly find myself captivated by the idea of capturing a dramatic sense of motion in a contemporary painting composition. But this idea posed layers of technical challenges. First the entire canvas is in motion with Koi below the surface as well as some breaking the surface and subtle differences between the two. The water is translucent but far from clear, adding a mysterious feel to the depths. I portrayed the fish themselves in a bold, rich palette of the different colors of koi with some colors right out of the tube. I also introduced a new color of gold that is infused with flecks of gold metal leaf, further amplifying the movement and the water’s depths. The result is a painting that makes it hard to for the viewer to resist reaching out to test the water for themselves.
