Moorish idol

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

■ How to paint sky, ocean, fish and coral

■ Follow a step-by-step acrylicpainting process

■ How to work with tone over colour

With this painting, Moorish Idol, I wanted to create an unusual split-screen effect whereby the viewer has a glimpse above and below the waterline. I decided to depict the species of tropical fish, called the Moorish idol (zanclus cornutus), because of their interesting shape and dramatic patterns of colour.

The Moorish idol is a common inhabitant of tropical to subtropical reefs and lagoons throughout the Indo-Pacific and usually mates for life. It takes its name from the Moors of Africa, who believed it would bring happiness. In the, a Moorish idol, named Gill, was one of Nemo’s tank mates.