Sketching mermaids

Just couple of sample sheets on sketching mermaids with graphite pencils. Using an art manikin model can be helpful in designing the upper bodies while the fish bottoms are stretched cones that end in triangular tails.

For graceful swimming poses, aim for "S" patterns in the line of action of the swimming mermaids.
Many cultures have mermaid-like creatures in their mythology. For example images of human/fish cominations can be seen in some Mochica ceramics in Peruvian museums.
Fish and crabs are typically depicted as companions to mermaids in recent popular culture.