The Eyes of the Koi are can be a focal point. In the M.C. Escher drawing "Three Different Worlds" the eyes of the fish bring home the awe or wonderment of the piece. The Eyes can also be a reflection area to add another dimension to the piece.
To portray action bend the body around an imaginary pole. The shading of the water, either swirling, or tidal creates additional action to the piece. Throw in a few air bubbles, rocks, water lilies, or under water plant life for realism. Keep in mind Koi fish live in fresh water, so they are not likely to be found swimming next to a dolphin.
The defining characteristics of Koi fish are the double barbels located on the upper lip, without them they are classified as Goldfish.
The next few pages provide you with starter sketches of the Koi, and then a few pages of sketches with Koi in varing positions.
