Gyotaku (pronounced ghee-yo-tah-koo from gyo: fish and taku: rubbing) is a Japanese art form which, despite its graphic simplicity, is surprisingly modern. The earliest known examples of this genre date to approximately 150 years ago.

Initially Gyotaku was developed to record the catches of fisherman in that it was an exact representation of the length and depth of their quarry. Simply stated, the process involves applying a medium to the fish then placing a flexible paper on the subject and “rubbing” it to gain the negative image. The images produced can vary from stark and fossilized to quite realistic representations depending on the inks or paints utilized by the artist and the texture and composition of the paper.

Artist Mark Ratterman has had a lifelong passion for fish and fishing and has practiced the art of Gyotaku for over 20 years. All of the fish detailed in his prints were collected by Mr. Ratterman in his travels and were enjoyed as a meal following their “posing.” His original work primarily is done in ink on rice paper. Limited edition giclée prints of his art are rendered using museum quality, acid free archival paper and ink. Original works and customized printing of a successful angler’s prized trophy are also available.

 
HOME | GALLERY | SHOWINGS | CONTACT |

All images and text © 2005 MARK RATTERMAN STUDIO and may not be reproduced in any manner without permission.