Udemy – Drawing Vibrant Fish with Oil Pastels & Acrylic Markers

“This course contains the use of artificial intelligence.” (voice over) Creating colorful marine art is a joyful experience. In this tutorial, we will bring four popular fish to life—the “Copperband Butterflyfish, Clownfish, Betta (Siamese Fighting Fish), and Goldfish” using a dynamic combination of creamy oil pastels and precise acrylic brush markers.

Step 1: Sketching the Forms

• Begin with light pencil sketches to capture the unique silhouettes:
• Butterflyfish :  Draw a high-bodied, triangular disc with a pointed snout.
• Clownfish : Create an oval body with rounded, friendly fins.
• Goldfish : Sketch a plump, egg-shaped body adorned with a large, flowing tail.
• Betta Fish : Focus on an elegant, streamlined body flanked by dramatic, sweeping fins.

Step 2: Layering with Oil Pastels

• Oil pastels are perfect for rich, blendable undertones.
• Block in the primary colors. Use vivid oranges and whites for the Clownfish and Goldfish.
• For the Butterflyfish, alternate bright yellow and white vertical stripes.
• Apply deep reds and blues onto the Betta fish body, blending smoothly with your fingers or a paper stump to create soft gradients.