Delightful detailed prints on paper can be made using real fish. Using direct printing and water-based printing inks, create realistic-looking schools of fish or a single artistic print simply by inking a whole fish and pressing it to paper.

The result is a gyotaku, a term derived from the Japanese words for fish (gyo) and print (taku). Before cameras, Japanese fishermen used this technique to document a big catch when they were out at sea: they applied sumi ink to a fish, pressed it to newspaper, and then rinsed the fish in the water so it could be eaten.

Discover the wonderful shapes and patterns of fish and create several 12-by-18-inch gyotaku. Learn how to paint realistic fish eyes to bring your print to life and cut masks to create realistic compositions.

Special Program Information

• The instructor is Sue Fierston.
• This program includes one 3-hour session.
• NOTE: Registration will close for this program at 3 p.m. ET on Friday, January 17, 2025.

General Information

• This studio arts program is a Zoom Meeting to allow for patron and instructor interaction online.
• All Studio Arts programs require an online registration for each participant so that the instructor can provide individual attention to every student registered for the online program.
• This program will be recorded. Please see our FAQ for recording terms and conditions.
• Please refer to the "Materials for this program" section for any applicable supply list information and/or special documents for this program.
• View Common FAQs and Policies about our Online Programs on Zoom.