Artist’s Statement
The art of gyotaku fish printing (gyo = “fish,” and taku = “impression” — the Japanese art of fish printing) has fascinated me since I began printing in 1997. Each of my gyotaku prints is a one-of-a-kind original created using real fish, water-based oil paints, and acid-free archival papers. My passion for fishing and fisheries resources, coupled with my fisheries biology background and commitment to artistic expression, inspire me to create unique gyotaku fish prints that bring the natural beauty of fish to life.
I have spent years studying the gyotaku art form, trying new techniques, experimenting with various fish species and papers, and enjoying creating high-quality and unique fish prints. Painting the fish in its natural colors is a challenging and enjoyable experience. With each fish I paint and print, my goal is to create a unique gyotaku art piece that accurately portrays the species, bringing enjoyment to all who see it. Using a variety of beautiful natural-fiber papers adds to the unique quality of each print.
My wife, daughter, and I happily live in Redding, California. In addition to being a gyotaku artist, I work as an environmental scientist with the State of California, tasked with maintaining the high quality of waters in the streams and lakes of Northern California. In 2007, I started One 4 Fish Prints, a business dedicated to quality gyotaku prints, the sustainable use of fisheries resources, conservation of existing fish populations, and the advancement of the gyotaku art form. (See http://www.one4fishprints.com.) Fish on!
Andrew Jensen
