Angel's Fish Art Emporium

There are actually many different types of Angel Fish. While many species of fish look similar, Angel Fish come in a wide range of shapes and colours although they are generally most widely recognised by their ‘star’ type shape, triangular fins and bright colors (although not all of them are brightly colored).

Although countless types of fish have been used for art, the perennial favourite is the Angel Fish. They are freshwater fish, native to the Amazon in South America. They were brought to Europe around 1820 and introduced to America in the 1920s.

If you’ve ever seen Tropical Fish you won’t be surprised to know that artists have been using them for inspiration for centuries! And it’s not surprising that so many people are interested in art inspired by these beautiful and wonderful creatures.

Paintings

There are as many types of Fish Art as there are art itself. The most popular is probably Fish Paintings which are readily available either in the original or as posters or prints.

Some artists specialise in fish paintings. F. Frank, for example, is a German artist has a library of sketch books that he created over the years that he uses for new ideas.

He paints on a high-quality canvas made from heavy-weight cotton covered with a coating of gesso that has been hand sanded. This is stretched over a wooden frame. The sizes typically run from 50 x 70 cm (19.8 x 27.8 ins) up to 100 x 140 cm (39.6 x 55.6 ins).

Most of his paintings are done with a high quality acrylic paint made in Erkrath by the German company, Schmincke, although he also uses oils. The results are very high quality and, of course, totally original.

Posters

As well as paintings, you can buy posters of fish and there are hundreds of styles and designs to choose from. These include photographs or fish as well as paintings and drawings, and also ‘artistic’ interpretations of fish and their habitat.

Sculptors have also used fish as models and inspiration to create everything from larger than life figureheads on ancient wooden ships to functional pond ornaments spouting out water.

Many fish sculptures are designed simply to be looked at and appreciated. You can buy small ornaments or collectibles in a vast range of designs and prices.

Every type of material has been used to sculpt fish from wood, stone, copper, iron and metalwork through to paper!

Some artists specialise in producing fish sculptures so realistic that you can’t tell them from the real thing! Other than the small - or lack of it!

Tiles

As many people delight in the appearance of tropical fish, fish designs have found their way onto Ceramic Tiles for use in kitchens, bathrooms, patios and swimming pools. They can be practical as well as decorative. Many fish art tiles are embossed, the raised surface adding to the realism. Some tiles are hand-painted adding a degree of uniqueness to each one.

And many fish art tiles are used specifically for decoration they often come with a hanging string or cork back.

Fabrics

Fabrics have also succumbed to the delights of the fish and fish patterns are commonly woven into rugs, quilts and tapestries. They are also a popular in knitted sweaters and as prints on T Shirts. Fabric bans also sport fish designs as do socks and ties. No item of clothing is safe!

Many items of clothing use fish designs to put across the message that we need to take more care of our environment, including the seas.

Whatever your interest in fish art, there will be something for you to wear, look at, play with or use. No wonder so many artists have taken inspiration from the wonderful Angel Fish.