Art of the Siamese Fighting Fish

Born to captivate, Betta Splendens known as the Siamese fighting fish is one of Thailand’s iconic species. As colorful as its rainbow-hued fins, this Siamese fighting fish has a history just as vibrant. Affectionately coined as the ‘Jewel of the Orient’, the betta species is appreciated for their gorgeous appearance displayed particularly when their fighting instinct comes to life. The only place that reminds the world of the betta’s beauty is the Siamese Fighting Fish Gallery situated on the Bangkachao Peninsula in Thailand. A learning center for the general public, this Gallery plays an important role in conserving the knowledge and legacy of the fighting fish species today. However, the Gallery is facing a decreasing interest among the local young audience, resulting in the lack of funds for continuous conservation of the fighting fish species. THE IDEA Optimum Betta, a fighting fish food brand joined hands with Shutterstock Thailand, a global marketplace for inspirational pictures and VDOs to produce the campaign “ART OF THE SIAMESE FIGHTING FISH,” that brings to life the art patterns from the movement and brilliant colors of the fighting fish species. We use visualization techniques including “Motion Analysis”, “Pigment Extraction” and “Digital Trail Sculpture.” These techniques allow long exposure to beautifully capture the dynamic movements of the fish to produce aesthetic art patterns, graphic elements and motion VDO clip. As a collaborative initiative with Shutterstock, these art patterns and motion VDO clip will be available for download on Shutterstock, each image and VDO clip detailing the story of the starred fighting fish breed. The generated image and clip VDO merchandising income will be contributed to fund the Siamese Fighting Fish Gallery for continuous conservation of the fighting fish species.