Elevating the Art of Gyotaku with Dwight Hwang (Online)

(Image left: Dwight Hwang, Color Gyotaku of Octopus, 2023. Gyotaku acrylic print on Japanese washi paper.)

Hwang will discuss the processes and inspiration behind the works in his exhibition From Sea to Paper: The Gyotaku Prints of Dwight Hwang on exhibition at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona, MN September 8, 2023 through January 7, 2024.  Hwang pushes the boundaries of traditional Gyotaku, a process by which an artist makes a print using a real fish, by printing them in different angles & perspectives and patterns & gradations in order to produce a more natural appearance, as well as incorporating other organic forms such as birds, plants, and even people. 

Registration is $8, or free for JASM members.

Dwight Hwang creates classical Japanese gyotaku art and European nature printing.Whether his subject is a fish, plants, birds, or even a person, he pushes not only the art but himself to bring awe, memories, and quiet contemplation to viewers worldwide. Partnered with institutions like NOAA and Patagonia, his work has been exhibited in museums such as the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, displayed in hospitality such as the Four Seasons Resorts, and showcased in publications including Forbes.
“My many years in Japan have taught me some very important things. However, one that stands out and remains to sculpt how I view the Japanese approach to life and artistry is the cultural love and admiration for simplicity, fleeting moments and the 'Perfect Imperfection'. To take an imperfect subject and emphasize these imperfections to be beautiful. It is my wish to show and convey this mindful philosophy to others.” (Biography from his website)

(Picture right: Dwight Hwang)