What is Gyotaku?

Do you want to have a keepsake of that spectacular fish you just caught but don’t want your home looking like a taxidermy shop? Then you might want to try your hand at Gyotaku.

Gyotaku is a traditional Japanese art form that involves using a fish as a printing surface to create detailed images on paper, specifically washi. The art of gyotaku originated in the early 1800s as a way for fishermen to record the size and type of fish they caught, as well as to create a visual record of their catch.

The original gyotaku method had fishermen apply sumi ink to the fish and then pressing paper to the fish to transfer the ink to fabric or washi paper creating a mirror image. Over time, gyotaku evolved into a form of art in its own right, with skilled artists using the technique to create detailed and beautiful prints of fish and other sea creatures. Today, gyotaku is enjoyed by artists and art lovers around the world, and it has become a popular way to create unique and striking images of marine life.

The process of creating a gyotaku print begins by selecting a fish to use as a printing surface. The fish is carefully cleaned and prepared, and then ink is applied to its scales and fins using a brush or other applicator. Once the ink has been applied, a piece of paper or fabric is carefully placed over the inked surface of the fish, and pressure is applied to transfer the ink to the paper. The resulting print is a detailed and lifelike image of the fish, with each scale and fin clearly visible. The prints can be left in their natural black and white state, or they can be hand-colored using a variety of techniques to create a more vibrant and colorful image.

One of the key elements of gyotaku is the use of natural materials. Traditional gyotaku artists use only natural materials such as sumi ink and lightweight paper made from mulberry bark called Unryu Paper. This focus on using natural materials reflects the close connection between the art form and the natural world, and helps to create prints that are both beautiful and sustainable.

Gyotaku is a unique and versatile art form that can be used to create a wide variety of images, from realistic portraits of individual fish to abstract designs inspired by the patterns and textures of the sea. It is a popular form of art among fishermen and marine biologists, as well as among artists who appreciate its natural beauty and craftsmanship.

In recent years, gyotaku has experienced a resurgence in popularity as people around the world discover the joys of this unique and fascinating art form. Today, there are gyotaku artists and enthusiasts in countries all around the world, and the art form continues to evolve and grow.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery to be inspired by the many examples of this method. If you would like to try your hand at creating your own gyotaku prints, start by purchasing Unryu Paper, then expand to other types of paper for more variety and visual variety.

Whether you are a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, gyotaku is a fun and rewarding way to explore the beauty and diversity of marine life, and to create stunning and unique works of art.