Unlike usual, I used tooth-shaped large driftwood with exaggerate shape, to create the feeling of big trees rotting in the water. Lots of moss and Anubias to increase the maturity of this layout. I also used "Eriocaulon" between sands and plants, I want to change the image that "Eriocaulon" is difficult to use in aquascaping. Using huge driftwood across middle to frontal, the big shadow is created by purpose, so it can be the shelter to Pterophyllum aitum and increase the tension of the layout. I also want to challenge using different plants with Pterophyllum aitum. People usually think angel fish is suitable with long-leaf plants like Vallisneria, but this time I want to challenge with something different by using round-leaf and thin-leaf plants, also some light-red plants in the background and a little bit in the middle-front.
For me, I've tried to think out of the box on the concept, thoughts and technique on this layout, I'm glad this bold attempt received such unexpected outcome. A big thank you to all the hard-working judges for your recognition to this work. Thank you to everyone contributed to the aquascaping world. Without each one of you, the aquascaping world couldn't be this huge and wonderful, and there will be no platform for us to present ourselves. If you didn't receive the outcome as you wish, don't weaken. This year has come to an end and let's hope for a higher level for next year's performance.
IIAC 2019 World Ranking Announcement - World Ranking 0001 - Grand Prize
Fallowness
Author: Yeo Siak Wee / Malaysia
W150 x D70 x H50 (cm)
Comments from Lin Ting Quan
A very unique work, excellent skills on planting and arrangement, plus the special structure of the wood, creates a very different style. Using Pterophyllum aitum in this tank requires great skills on tank management, a very bold decision, no doubt one of the best work this year. Need to be more careful with the color tone during photographing, the plants seems not in the right color. Maybe the scaper wants to create some special atmosphere, but the result is not very ideal. The overall structure is too crowded, not enough white space.
Comments from Andy
I was deeply attracted by this tank when I first saw it. Strong and beautiful line, the richness of the multi-level layout, the arrangement of the light and shadow and the selection of the fishes, everything is perfect. If I really need to be picky, the moss on the wood can be thinner and the plants on the upper level could use some trimming.
Comments from Rony Suzuki
The position of the fallen trunks giving the sensation of a flow of water coming from left to right together with the coordination of the fish swimming against the flow provided an essential complement to the visual impact of this magnificent montage!
Comments from Balbi Vaquero
A great aquarium and not only for its measures! It was love at first sight with this aquarium, I love seeing nature aquarium in its purest form, I love practically everything in it, I would only change the selection of plants in some points where in my opinion they acquire too much prominence, but I have to recognize that the overall of this set up is beautiful, a fantastic old school tank. Well done congratulations !!
Comments from Gary Wu
A masterpiece! This scape with a perfect fish selection showing angle fish chasing the neon tetra. The hardscape arrangement with a strong perspective view enhance the momentum. Plants with good composition and grow healthy. A perfect timing capture this wonderful natural selection moment.
Comments from Hsu Yung Lin
The scaper used the shape of woods to create a very different structure. The conversation between the plants and the animals presents the richness and diversity in the nature. A work with great depth.
Comments from Frederic Fuss
There have been three works this year that have really stood out and touched my soul. This is one of them and it matches exactly my kind of taste. A beautiful, dynamic design reminiscent of some older, classic designs. I really like the arrangement of the roots here, it looks natural and still has a lot of expression. Just wonderful, I admire your work!
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