asked me to do a pair of art shoes for her but she gave me free rein over the design.

The previous art shoes I've done didn't satisfy as much in me but this... This I got to say has created a sense of harmony which really satisfied my expectation. I'm really glad I got free design on this. Koi fish come in numerous patterns and I don't know about you but they kind of bring a sense of peace to me when I see them swimming in a swirl of color and they're inspiring.

As for the title, did you know that "koi" in Japanese also means "love?" "Koi" is a longing feeling for a specific person. It can be described as "romantic love" or "passionate love." While "ai" has the same meaning as "koi," it also has a definition of a general feeling of love. "Koi" can be selfish, but "ai" is a real love. In a way, "koi" is wanting while "ai" is giving. There's your Japanese lesson of the day. Hooray!

Detail shots here: [link]

Copic Markers, Faber-Castell pens with Gloss. 9-10 hrs.

Have a good day!