#10

The tradition of locating canals and ponds where special species of fish were bred, in parks around palaces, dates back centuries. The fish served for people’s enjoyment on walks, entertaining the royal entourage at least in Italy, France, and Poland. For instance, in France, by order of King Henry IV of Navarre, a 1,200-meter canal was created next to the Fontainebleau canal—to breed fish for the king’s table and, of course, for the beauty of the landscape. So, the royal fish naturally came to my attention. The symbolism of fish is probably one of the richest in the global culture: their images signified celestial constellations and zodiac signs; they symbolized health and fertility; Finally, thanks to the ancient Greek acronym “Ίχθύς” the fish became a symbol of Christ in particular and Christianity in general.

Using an unexpected perspective, shapes and colors, I created a new figurative reading of a familiar symbol. The huge fish, much loved by tourists, peek out of the water, waiting for more food. Their backs are almost frighteningly snake-like; their number symbolizes abundance and even excess, and this makes you look closely at the web of the fearless fish. They swim about in dark water, creating a feeling of unexpected beauty and ease of composition built on complete chaos. Looking at them, everyone can see their own story and symbols.

© VarrIng