Hyderabad’s new creative wave: The rise of Koi Pond Resin art
HYDERABAD: In the bustling heart of Hyderabad, a gentle new trend is making waves among art enthusiasts and anyone craving a peaceful pause: Koi Pond Resin Art. This weekend, Makobrew World Coffee Bar transforms into a haven for this enchanting craft, where sculpture and fluid art merge to conjure tranquil underwater worlds organized by Thirdspace. What draws so many to this art form, steeped in Japanese symbolism, right here in our city? To uncover the story behind its rise, HyderabadMail turned to Manav Bhalodi from Thirdspace, who reveals how this mindful and creative escape gained traction.
Q: What is Koi Pond Resin Art? How did it emerge and gain popularity, especially in Hyderabad?
Manav Bhalodi: Koi pond resin art is a beautiful blend of sculpture and fluid art, where artists recreate the serene look of a koi fish pond using resin, paints, clay, and natural textures. This art form originated from Japan’s deep cultural symbolism of the koi fish, which represent perseverance, peace, and good fortune. It gained global traction as resin art became more accessible. In Hyderabad, it has gained particular popularity in the last couple of years as people have started seeking calm, mindful experiences through art. Many discovered koi pond resin art through social media reels. It’s visually soothing to watch, and even more relaxing to create.
Q: Can you walk us through the key steps of creating a miniature koi pond, from start to finish?
Manav Bhalodi: The process begins with designing the pond base by shaping and layering miniature stones, moss, and clay elements to create depth. Participants then sculpt and hand-paint tiny koi fish, arrange them thoughtfully in the pond, and finally pour layers of clear resin to create the water-like effect. Once the resin sets, details such as ripples, bubbles, and highlights are added to bring it to life.
Q: The workshop is described as soothing and calming. How does the process promote relaxation?
Manav Bhalodi: Every step is slow and intentional, from mixing resin to gently placing the koi fish. There’s something deeply meditative about focusing on small details, watching colors blend, and creating a miniature world with your own hands. It naturally slows down your thoughts and helps you stay present in the moment. Many participants say it feels like therapy, a mindful escape from daily noise.
Q: What is the most surprisingly enjoyable or meditative part of the process for most participants?
Manav Bhalodi: Most participants find sculpting and painting the koi fish surprisingly enjoyable. The moment they realize their tiny fish looks real, with shades, movement, and shine, brings a lot of satisfaction. Watching the final resin pour settle into a glass-like pond is also a crowd favorite; it’s incredibly calming to see it transform before your eyes.
Q: What techniques do you teach for crafting and painting the koi fish to make them look lifelike?
Manav Bhalodi: We teach layering and blending techniques using acrylic paints, creating soft gradients that mimic the natural color transitions of koi fish. Participants learn to use fine brushes for details such as scales, fins, and eyes, and also how to position the fish at different angles within the resin to create a sense of motion and depth.
Q: What do participants enjoy the most about this workshop?
Manav Bhalodi: They love the satisfaction of creating something that looks real and beautiful enough to display. The workshop’s cozy, judgment-free environment also adds to the experience; people bond over art, laugh, and leave with a sense of calm and accomplishment.
Q: What is the most common concern beginners have, and how do you address it?
Manav Bhalodi: Beginners often worry about messing up the resin pour or not being artistic enough. We reassure them that the process is simple and guided step by step. There’s no right or wrong in art; every pond ends up with its own charm. Once they start, the nervousness usually melts away.
Q: How long does the workshop typically last?
Manav Bhalodi: It typically lasts about two to two and a half hours, depending on the group size and the drying time between resin layers.
Q: What’s the one thing you hope people take away from this creative session?
Manav Bhalodi: We hope participants leave with a sense of peace and confidence, feeling proud of what they created. More than just art, this experience demonstrates how creativity can be a grounding and restorative force.
Q: Anything to add further?
Manav Bhalodi: At Thirdspace, our goal is to make art accessible and joyful for everyone, including those who don’t think they’re artistic. The koi pond resin workshop reflects that perfectly: calm, creative, and deeply personal. It’s not just about making something pretty; it’s about pausing, connecting, and finding joy in the process.
