Instructor: Nathan Hall, Head Biologist at the Aquarium of Boise
Date: Thursday, October 19
Time: 6:30-8:30pm
Location: KAIC 101



Class Description:
I Once Caught a Fish This Big! Gyotaku (guh-yo-tah-koo) is the Japanese art of fish painting. The art form was developed more than a century ago as a fisherman's method of recording the species of his catch. Fresh caught fish were painted with a non-toxic ink, and covered with a piece of rice-paper. The paper was then carefully smoothed down, and removed to make an exact size and copy of the fresh fish. Once the print was completed, the fish was washed and prepared for a meal. This unique method allowed fisherman to record their catch and eat their meal.

Since its early beginnings, the art of Gyotaku has expanded to become an intricately detailed art form that relies on precision, patience to pay homage and respect to the animal and the catch. Gyotaku art has become a fixture in museums and galleries around the world. Come and join the Boise Aquarium on the College of Idaho Campus. Students will learn to look long and carefully as they create exact replicas of fish and will learn the printing process of Gyotaku. Students will familiarize themselves with the printing process of Gyotaku and learn the history and culture of the Japanese fisherman at the end of the Edo period. All supplies included. Don't' let this class get away, catch the fun on October 19th!