Anglesey Sea Bass Gyotaku

This bass was caught on a line by a local fisherman here in North Wales.  It was caught on the Menai Stait.

Bass are my favourite fish to print the definition you get on the scales is wonderful.  Whereas most Gyotaku are made to record a fisherman's catch, I combine my experience as an oil painter and create Gyotaku that are more expressive using colour in a less conventional way. 

Printing is just the first part of the process.  After printing, the paper is cockled and wouldn’t lay flat in a frame.  I hand paint the eye on the print and leave that to dry.

To achieve a flat print I use the traditional wet mounting process that has been used in the east for centuries.  This process takes 24hours.  The Japanese name for this process is Urauchi which I believe means gluing backing paper to artwork.  That is pretty much what is done.  A wheatpaste is applied to the back of the print and in this process you remove all air bubbles and wrinkles.   Here I have applied the backing sheet to the print and they are left to dry overnight.  The result is a thicker, flat print that can now be framed.  When it is flattened, I sign the print and stamp it with my Hanko.

This print is framed professionally and measures approx 34x69 and framed 83x49cm.  

This work makes a lovely statement piece for a coastal home or for anyone who likes eating, cooking or catching fish. 

Shipping within the UK is free and shipping to other territories is calculated at checkout.  Please be aware if you are buying from overseas local taxes and duties may be due.

Thanks for taking a look and if you have any questions just drop me a line.  Jane