Fourth graders learned about a new species of fish and about an ancient Japanese art style while creating these beautiful Koi fish ponds. Using colored pencil to create their own exquisitely detailed fish, they then placed them in watercolor and wax resist waves.

Did you know…
Koi comes from the Japanese word for Carp, another type of fish

Farmers who worked in rice fields during the 1800’s noticed that some carp were more brightly-colored than others. They captured them and began to raise them. New patterns developed, the fish got brighter and more varied, and then farmers began to exhibit them at shows.  They were hugely popular; Japanese put them in their art, they were shipped worldwide, and the hobby of keeping Koi ponds became the latest rage.

Koi also means love and affection: therefore, these fish are symbols of friendship and love in Japanese culture

Please click on the thumbnails below to see larger image....