Mini Scallop Shell Gyotaku

Making this print was so much fun!  Here I've used a scallop shell that was donated to me by a marine biologist who lives locally.

The print measures just over 10cmx10cm so it really is mini. 

The print is made using the finest quality Acrylic ink.  I've used a blue and gold ink and blended them on the surface of the shell.  The process of Gyotaku means that every print is completely unique.  They are all hand inked and hand pressed. 

I always find it difficult to explain my process to people but I'll attempt to do so here.  I take a real shell, then I put ink onto it.  Then I press the paper over the surface of the shell. 

Once the print is made, it needs to be made flat.  For this I use the Japanese method known as Urauchi or here in the west, Wet mounting. 

Wet mounting is done by putting a very thin glue over the back of the print and then pressing a second sheet of paper over the back of the print.  In doing so you can remove all the creases from the paper and the second sheet bonds to the first making the print thicker and better for framing or mounting on board.  On the video the backing paper is clearly visible, this should be cut down to the same size as the print for framing.

I'm always very happy to answer questions about my art, so please don't hesitate to contact me if you need more information.  I'm also happy to receive studio visits here on Anglesey so if you're passing let me know and let's see if we can arrange a time that suits us both.

Shipping to the UK is free.