Wrasse Gyotaku Print

This was my first time printing wrasse.  I could see the details of the fish but struggled to get them to show up.  The details show up nicely in this print though.

With a multiple print like this one, each fish is printed individually so this is actually 8 individual prints on the same sheet of paper.  Each time you make a print there is a risk the fish will leak or you might not align it correctly and then the fish can unintentionally overlap.  

The print is black.  I have used premium quality acrylic ink.  The fish eyes are hand painted after printing.  It is signed by myself, Jane Evans as well as using my hanko stamp, the traditional method of marking artwork in Japan.  The print measures 69cm x34cm and is on a Chinese mulberry paper.  This paper is strong yet flexible so ideal for shaping over fish.  

Producing the print is only the first part of the process.  Once printed the paper is cockled and will not lie flat in a frame.  It is therefore mounted.  I am now using the traditional method for this which is to use a wheat paste to flatten the print and then adhere it to a second sheet of mulberry paper.  This process takes 24 hours.  

The wrasse was given to me by a local fisherman who caught it in the Menai Strait, a short distance from my home.  Additionally, using the wheat paste is a ph neutral process and uses less man made chemicals.  

The print is supplied in a white mount with backing board and will be posted flat.  With the mount it measures 77.5cm x 42.5cm 

Shipping within the Uk is free for this service.  

If you would prefer the print to be framed, please drop me an email where I would be happy to discuss the options.  

Thanks for taking the time to look.   Jane