36″ x 24″, acrylic on canvas, June 2021

Betta fish are interesting creatures, specifically the males. They pose a fun juxtaposition: they exude grace, delicacy, and beauty, traditionally deemed feminine traits. On the other hand, they’re so territorial and aggressive that you can’t place two in the same bowl without fatalities. In dreams or spiritual contexts, these fish symbolize a subconscious thought or feeling fighting it’s way to the surface, especially when one feels stagnated. ‘Beau’ is my rendering of a betta fish. I used warm, neon shades against cooler violets and blues to continue a juxtaposing feel.