What is Gyotaku?

Gyotaku is the Japanese art of making fish prints on delicate rice paper. This artform reproduces the exact features and characteristics of actual, individual fish. In Japanese, “gyo” translates to “fish” and “taku” translates to “stone rubbing” which refers to the technique of fish rubbing. Gyotaku began in Japan or China in the early 1800s as a means to measure and record a commercial fisherman’s catch.

Burt has attempted to express a variety of colors, textures and compositions through this unique artform, breaking with the traditional boundaries of this historic medium. Today, Gyotaku is an alternative to taxidermy and mounting fish, and has become a recognized form of fine art.

Related gyotaku links:

› Gyotaku demonstration
› Nature Printing Society
› wikiHow: How to do Gyotaku Fish Rubbing