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Jeff Conroy
Boo Berry - Gyotaku Style Sumi Ink Painting of a Multi-Colored Octopus

2023

About the Item

A small octopus is inked in the Japanese style of Gyo-Taku print making. Using sumi ink to "print" the octopus, the artist then embellishes it with colored pencil to convey an extraordinary dimensionality. By printing it on Mulberry paper, which mimics the swirl of water, the artist achieves a beautiful aesthetic. The artwork is unframed. Please contact the gallery for framing options. Jeff Conroy Boo Berry sumi ink and colored pencil on mulberry paper 12.50h x 18.25w in 31.75h x 46.35w cm JEC116 Gyotaku - A Japanese word translated from "gyo" meaning fish and "taku" meaning stone impression and is believed to get its inspiration from Chinese stone rubbings of calligraphy, which then gave rise to printing . This tradition dates back to the mid-1800s and was used by fishermen to record their catches, but has also become an art form of its own. Prints were made using Sumi ink and Washi paper. It is rumored that Samurai would settle fishing competitions using Gyotaku prints. This original form of Gyotaku is still utilized today, and can be seen hanging in fish and tackle shops all over Japan.