I have not worked in my art journal for weeks. This time of year is just busy to a crazily hectic degree. I decided to grab some little pockets of time over the past few days to produce an illustration in my art journal. I decided to work on an Art Journal Adventure prompt that I had missed. Last week’s prompt was “clown”. That was never going to happen given that I am a massive coulrophobe so I pondered the broader prompt, which was circus. My clown phobia is actually tied up in a milder phobia of circuses. However, I have an interest in the history of sideshows and “freaks” so that was the avenue my creative imagination wandered down. I have illustrated the Pig-Faced Lady of Manchester Square before in my art journal and this time I intended to draw another favourite “freak”, Lionel the Dog-Faced Boy. However, I was so short on art time that I decided to produce a much simpler and more whimsical illustration. I, therefore, chose to depict a version of the Fiji Mermaid. This was a curiosity exhibited by PT Barnum as the mummified remains of a mermaid when it was actually the head and torso of a monkey stitched onto the tail of a fish. This is just a simple ink drawing coloured with a very loose wash of watercolour.
A Pict in PA 
Your mermaid made me burst out in laughter. The whole concept of a mermaid with a monkey’s head is just so absurd–“whimsical” is the perfect description of your drawing, from the smile on its face to its curlicue ears to its outrageously long tresses. I love it.
Thanks, Mike. I just drew quickly and without much thought but I’m fairly happy with the outcome.
Love your interpretation – definitely whimsical. However, I clicked on the link to the Fiji Mermaid and that might have put me off any type of mermaid for a LONG time.
Ha ha! Yes, she definitely wasn’t the alluring type of mermaid.
Very comical, love this mermaid
Thanks, Sharon.
I love the big staring eyes and tiny teeth. For some reason I am reminded of the X Files episode “ Humbug”. It’s my favorite episode. Might be up your alley?
Thanks. I think I remember that X Files episode. It was set in Jupiter, Florida, right? That was actually the town where “freaks” lived which is why I remember it.
Yes, in Florida, where circuses used to winter over. I agree with you about clowns and circuses, by the way, — they are creepy.
I think it’s a fairly common phobia.
Sometimes simple (ink and wash) is best! You nailed it again! And your mermaid made me laugh!
I’m glad you enjoyed seeing it. Yeah, I think simple and quick actually works better for me.
Me too! Keep up your good quick work!
My Daily Harry Potter drawing challenge has driven home the message that I enjoy simple line drawings the most.
Isn’t it a delight when we realize the kinds of art-making that most fits our hand (so to speak)? It’s like finding your voice. After finding that “fit” it makes it easier to get right to saying what you want to say artistically. (at least it has been so for me) Congrats on figuring out that you enjoy simple line drawings!
Thank you.