This artist, fishfanatic, practices an ancient Japanese technique called GYOTAKU, translated as 'fish'rubbing'. There is something so raw and organic about the images, perhaps because the paper has touched a real fish, a once living organism. It is a nostalgic feeling the fish conjures in me, a day on the boat fishing with Dad.
The fish pulls stubbornly on the thin clear fishing line. The rod bounces up and down, up and down, as if it is jumping with excitement. Dad reels and the fish comes to the surface, fighting the water at each turn. Alas it appears before us, panting as Dad pulls it into the open air. It is beautiful, colorful scales glistening in the sunlight. I feel a surge of anxiety, knowing that the fish cannot breath above water but I am afraid to pull out the hook. I can only pet the fish, my nervousness makes my hands shake too much to get a good grip. Dad holds the fish close to me and tries to teach me how to remove the hook. I want to learn, I really do, but I cannot. I cannot pull out the hook knowing that it will hurt this innocent organism. Dad gives it a good tug, out comes the hook and in goes the fish. It swims away from the boat, under the depths of the musty green lake water. To freedom.
The artist's process is simple: pigment is applied to real fish and then the paper is pressed. He paints the eye for a realistic rendition. This GYOTAKU is of two bluegills and a perch. The size is 8 in x 12 in, priced at only $26. What a steal for a one-of-a-kind piece!
For more details: http://bit.ly/5aWRxE
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