Robert Buick’s Koi is a dynamic steel sculpture that transforms the fluid movement of a fish into an energetic arrangement of curved, folded, and textured metal forms. The body is constructed from overlapping pieces of steel that create a sense of volume without relying on a solid mass, allowing light and shadow to move through the sculpture.

The head is strongly defined, with a textured surface and prominent circular eye giving the fish a lively, almost animated presence. From there, broad sections of curved steel suggest the body, fins, and tail, each piece shaped with a different surface treatment. Some areas are smooth and reflective, while others are hammered, pitted, or darkened, producing a varied patina of silver, bronze, charcoal, and subtle blue tones.

The tail and fins flare outward in irregular, sweeping shapes that suggest the motion of a koi turning through water. Buick avoids strict realism, instead reducing the fish to expressive fragments that capture its character and movement. The sculpture appears almost suspended above its support, reinforcing the impression of a fish gliding or twisting in space.

Mounted on a tall, open steel pedestal, Koi gains a light, floating quality despite the weight of its material. The contrast between the compact, energetic fish and the restrained geometric stand emphasizes Buick’s balance of organic form and industrial construction.