MACKEREL, HAND PAINTED GYOTAKU

The markings on a mackerel are so distinctive, sadly they don't pick up when you try and print the fish so you have two options.  The first (which I did here) is to apply the ink according to the pattern.  The second would be to paint on the markings after printing. 

I did do some hand painting on this one though.  In addition to the eye, I also added a thin wash over the belly of the fish to extenuate its shape.

All my work is made by me in my garden studio on the beautiful Island of Anglesey.  Gyotaku is an ancient Japanese art form which is now practised in many coastal locations globally.

 The paper I work on is very thin oriental paper made from tree bark fibre.   Once the work is made it must by flattened using the Urauchi process. 

For Urauchi, the print is laid flat, face down on a flat surface and the back of the work is pasted with a thin glue.  A second sheet of paper is then applied to the back and pressed down.  The two are left to dry for 12-24 hours and will become completely bonded producing a much thicker sheet that will lie flat in a frame.

Shipping in the UK is included.  This work is framed and so will be sent by Parcelforce on an insured service.  Please feel free to drop me a line if you need further information.  Jane