The ancient Japanese art form originating before the use of cameras during the early 1800’s. Fisherman would use squid ink to brush on the fish then press it with rice paper to get a direct ink impression so they could record and still wash, process, and eat the fish.
Oyster Gyotakus are made from oysters that were sustainably grown using aquaculture methods by Honest Oysters of Maryland out of Girdletree, Maryland.
Even small fish deserve love and to be remembered. Some local salt & freshwater smaller sized fish that I’ve pressed and painted are my favorite fish tales. Check out my 8×10″ & 11×14″ artwork.
Gyotakus of hearty sport fish like Sheepshead, Rockfish (Striped Bass), Redfish, & Trout. Check out some of my 16X20″ and larger artwork.
Art that outlasts
Gyotaku (fish – rubbing)
Gee-yo-tah-koo
The traditional Japanese art form of painting directly upon ones catch, pressing it carefully with paper, and creating a life-sized impression that can now outlive the fish, the fisherman, & artist.
The Story
I’ve always wanted to feel connected to the ecosystems of the waters that surround us. The unique geography of the Chesapeake and Mid-Atlantic region has long since been a life-giving breadbasket for people and communities for countless generations.
Graduating from Salisbury University with a degree in Environmental Studies and Business Management, I worked on organic farms and grew a deep appreciation for food, the dirty work it took to get it to the table, and the lives harvested for the sake of a meal. Through the seasons I gleaned the importance of how woven and interconnected we are to each other, the soil, the air, and water.
Gyotaku is my way of giving thanks, of honoring a life, memorializing a memory, as well as showing my passion to share the shore so other people can recognize how important it is to protect and appreciate the beauty around us for countless generations to come.
