Guild Artists
FINE CRAFT IN A COOPERATIVE SPIRIT
Guild Artist
Carrie Lee Brady
Gyotaku: the Fine Art of Printing From Nature
Carrie Lee Brady practices the art form called Gyotaku, a Japanese word that literally means fish (GYO) impression (TAKU). This technique originated with ancient fisherman in order to record their catch. Non-toxic water-based inks are applied directly onto the side of a real fish, then rice paper or fabric is carefully pressed on top. When lifted, a detailed mirror-image fishprint is revealed. Many impressions can be taken from the same fish to create complex compositions. And, the fish can be washed and eaten. From game fish to tropical flowers, octopus to chameleons, the art of printing from nature has grown from a primitive means of accurate documentation to a highly prized Art Form.
Carrie has lived on Maui for more than twenty years, and studied art with some of the island's finest teachers. An avid watersports enthusiast, surfer, and free-diver, she brings her love and knowledge of the ocean to her work. Carrie's nature prints are found in art collections worldwide and can be purchased in galleries throughout the Hawaiian islands. Described as energetic, yet sensitive, these fine, original prints are a unique translation between science and art.
"I have always had a passion for seeing beyond the surface of things and felt the desire to experience a more truthful understanding of how we fit into our natural surroundings. Growing up in a family of artists and thinkers, my creative side was stimulated at a very young age, and I began to paint and draw from nature. For more than a dozen years I have worked extensively in the field of gyotaku, and through this process, my sense of scientific curiosity and aesthetic wonder remain alive and thriving.
Living here on the island of Maui for more than half my life has allowed me the opportunity to study and print from an amazing array of ocean and rain-forest creatures. Through the art of gyotaku I aim to share the mystery and beauty that I have discovered with people of all ages....and from all parts of the globe...with aloha."
gyotaku@hawaiianfishprints.com
808.575.2734
www.hawaiianfishprints.com