The Florida Keys unique subtropical ecosystem is extremely fragile and sensitive. and therefore incumbent upon residents and visitors to preserve and protect this internationally recognized resource. One way to do this is through Gyotaku. At Florida Keys Ocean Gallery we have Original Japanese fish prints for sale online. Gyotaku is also known as Japanese fish prints or Gyotaku fish prints or fish rubbings. GYOTAKU Gyotaku was developed in the early 1800's as a way of taxidermy so to speak. The Samurai fishermen used Gyotaku also known as Japanese fish prints or fish rubbings to record the exact shape and size of a prize catch before the invention of the camera. Like so many things oriental, Japanese fish prints "Gyotaku" evolved into a highly prized fine art form. An original impression is made in ink directly from the fish, as the technique faithfully captures line for line all of the intricate patterns of every scale and fin, hence the term Fish Rubbings. As you will see in our Gallery Gyotaku Art is very beautiful for your Florida Keys beach house or cottage décor.
D. William Davis is a local Florida Keys Artist. Dan has become aware of how our environment in the Florida Keys has drastically changed over the years he has lived here. " I want to preserve what we are so fortunate to see today." Japanese Fish Prints are also used by the artist D. William Davis as an artistic form of taxidermy for the local fishermen and the tourist alike.
"I use Gyotaku as a way to capture the gestural spirit of the magnificent and vast game species of the Florida Keys. I am currently working on a color collection of popular game and reef species. I am excited to promote visual arts and culture in the Florida Keys."
Davis only works with fish that he personally catches. "The memory of that day, the battle of the catch, and the feeling that the sea has given me a gift, this is what I take to my studio to create my paintings."
"After my fish printing process is finished I begin to develop my compositions. I dive the spots where I have caught my fish to observe the fragile, natural corals and grass surroundings, where these amazing game fish live. My mediums are, Sumi Ink, Graphite, Gouache, Watercolors and Japanese Watercolors. My papers are, Mulberry, Rice paper and Silk."
After the Gyotaku paintings are completed. they are mounted on a backing paper, and are ready to be photographed for a digital portfolio, then matting and framing. All the printing is done by his partner at Florida Keys Ocean Gallery with archival materials only. "We have the best Epson printer on the market and enjoy making stunning, museum quality, archival prints for you."