Gyotaku is the process of creating prints from fish that I have speared/caught. By covering them with non-toxic ink and pressing fabric over them, I can lift the print from the fish itself! I began the process of Gyotaku in order to produce an aesthetic art piece that respectfully memorialises the life of the animal I harvested for my consumption. I discovered that I was not merely memorialising a catch, but a whole experience. These print represents more than just a fish, but the invaluable memories that came with it. After catching the fish and the joy that comes with the experience of being in the sea, I merge my passion for fishing with my other great passion – fine art. I love the process of making these prints almost as much as I love the experience of catching the fish. The cherry on top is the meal I get to share with my loved ones after the process is complete.
This Galjoen was shot in Wilderness, South Africa on a beautifully calm day with crystal clear water. We made the most of these rare conditions and dived a very shallow reef that we cannot access unless the conditions are perfect. It was on this day that I saw Yellowtail in the Garden Route for the first time, as well as no less than twenty Raggedtoothed sharks!
Our national fish, the Galjoen, can be tricky to hunt in such shallow water as they use their robust build to dart in and out of the turbulent surf zones. I was blessed to return home with this beautiful fish after we crossed paths in just three metres of water.
