Gyo Taku
Printing method
Gyo "fish, taku "rubbing" is a traditional Japanese method of print making that dates back to the mid 1800's. Long before insta or reliable cameras, Japanese fisherman used this technique to record the size and species of their catches.
The Weight of the Depth
I wanted to capture the raw, organic profile. Heavy application of ink creates a bold silhouette that feels grounded and prehistoric while the paper adds a sense of antiquity.
I chose to leave the center light to highlight the 'grain' of the scales and arch of the back. To me, this piece represents that first moment of clarity when a fish breaks the surface - dark, wet, capturing raw energy.
Rhythm in the Current -
(The Triple Study)
"With this piece, I wanted to move away from the singular 'trophy' shot and focus on movement. By layering these three rubbings, I was chasing the visual rhythm of a school in motion.
I like how the ink varies in intensity - some impressions are bold and defiant while others are as fleeting as a shadow passing under a boat. Its less about specific fish and more about the energy of the river itself.
This was a bigger piece, (60x50), which I really enjoyed.
A Quiet Observation -
(Mixed media)
This work is my way of lingering over the details that a quick print might miss. After taking the initial impression, I went back in with graphite to map out the anatomy - the set of the jaw, the focus int he eye, the delicate rays of the fins.
It's part record - keeping, part tribute. I wanted it to feel like a page from my field pad, capturing the quiet, reflective state of mind that only comes after battleing the sketch book by the water.