AGAIAC 2026 / Aquatic Garden / 220L+

#1238 Magic Leaves

Nobphacha Yimyou • Thailand Pakkred, Nonthaburi, Thailand

5 rank

About This Aquascape

As for me, I’d call this style ..... "Nature Fantasy"

Nobphacha Yimyou

Pakkred, Nonthaburi, Thailand

Quick Stats

Style: Aquatic Garden
Size: 120x60x50 cm
Volume: 360 L (95.1 gal.)
Plant Species: 1
Fish Species: 1

Judges' Comments

I really like this work! The hardscape is well executed, and the overall layout looks very natural. The choice of plants is also spot on, and their placement enhances the design. I also really appreciate the amount of detail, which makes the aquarium even more interesting. A really great job, with excellent quality!

— Gloria Ciriello

A peaceful retreat. Between the branching roots, the gentle shades of green, and the few warm accents of colour, a small, tranquil world seems to unfold. An intricate network of roots forms the structural backbone of the composition. Emerging from the main focal areas on the right, the roots extend predominantly horizontally, with a gentle upward movement, guiding the eye through the scene. Finer branches weave between the stronger main roots, creating a sense of depth without making the composition unnecessarily dense. The interplay of different structures fills the frame, while a lightly planted sandy area in the foreground provides a subtle contrast. Above it, lotus plants spread their floating leaves across the water’s surface. The planting along the sides frames the scene without fully enclosing it. The colour palette follows the same principle of restraint. The undersides of the floating leaves lend the upper part of the composition a soft orange-red glow, creating an appealing contrast with the various shades of green. Subtle orange and yellow accents appear elsewhere in the aquarium as well. Together, these colours create a nuanced interplay that brings the composition to life without compromising its harmony. For me, however, the true strength of this work lies not in any single element, but in the way all its components come together. Nothing seems to be there merely for its own sake. The roots provide structure, the finer branches create depth, the planting frames the scene, and the colours introduce delicate accents. There is no reliance on excessive contrast, exaggerated layering, or spectacular effects. The composition offers enough detail to invite exploration, yet leaves the viewer with room to linger. The artist does not seek to overwhelm the viewer with visual impact. Instead, he invites us to pause for a moment and immerse ourselves in the beauty of this small world. It is a form of design economy that I particularly admire: not using as many elements as possible, but choosing precisely the right ones. This work reminds me that beauty need not be loud to reach us. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience it, and for me, it was the finest entry in this year’s competition. Congratulations, and thank you for sharing this wonderful work!

— Frederic Fuß

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