The Art of Gyotaku: A Unique Way to Capture the Beauty of Fish
Gyotaku, often referred to as fish printing, is a traditional Japanese art form that was once used by fishermen to document their catches before the invention of photography. This method involved using natural inks, such as squid ink, and pressing the fish onto paper or fabric found on their boats. These early prints were not only practical but also served as a way for fishermen to showcase their achievements from the sea.
Over time, the detailed patterns of scales and ridges captured through gyotaku began to be appreciated as an artistic expression. It was not just a record of a catch; it became a revered form of art, especially among Japanese aristocrats who valued its aesthetic qualities. Today, this technique continues to inspire artists around the world, including Jaturun 'Thank' Rungruengsaowapak, one of the few gyotaku artists in Thailand.
Thank, a 31-year-old artist, first encountered gyotaku when he saw a piece hanging in a restaurant. The intricate beauty of the artwork intrigued him, leading him to explore how it was created. At the time, there was very little information about gyotaku in Thai, so he had to rely on translating texts from Japanese or English to learn the craft. His passion for fish led him to open a bar in Bangkok where sashimi is served, and his ultimate goal is to create prints of all Thai fish species.
The process of creating a gyotaku print begins with drying the fish's surface thoroughly. Any remaining moisture can interfere with the ink application. The black ink used in gyotaku, known as sumi, is similar to the ink used in Chinese calligraphy. Made from pine cones or fish skin, sumi is food-safe, which means the fish can still be consumed after the printing process.
Artists use different shading techniques when applying ink to the fish, depending on their style. Thank prefers to make his prints as realistic as possible, applying more ink to areas with distinct patterns and less to flatter regions. The traditional paper used in Japan for gyotaku is called washi, but in Thailand, artists often use mulberry paper, known as saa paper, which offers comparable quality.
With steady hands, the artist presses the paper against the fish, carefully guiding each finger along the ridges and scales. When the paper is lifted, the image of the fish appears as if it had drawn itself. The final step involves adding an eye, the only feature that the artist draws by hand.
"Beyond being caught and cooked, the fish lives on in the art," Thank said, reflecting on the significance of his work. His creations and live demonstrations are currently on display at the Thailand Printmaking Festival, held at Central Chidlom in Bangkok. The event runs until July 15 in the second-floor event hall.
Through his dedication and passion, Thank has brought the ancient art of gyotaku to new audiences in Thailand, proving that even the simplest forms of art can have a profound impact. His journey into the world of fish printing highlights the intersection of culture, creativity, and nature, offering a unique perspective on the beauty of marine life.
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