S2E04: The Art of Gyotaku w/ Dwight Hwang

In this engaging conversation, Katie C. Sawyer interviews Dwight Hwang, a master of Gyotaku, the Japanese art of fish printing. Dwight shares the history and techniques of Gyotaku, its cultural variations, and his personal journey as an artist. He discusses the challenges he faced in pursuing his passion for art, the influence of his family, and the importance of storytelling in his work. The conversation highlights the deep connection between art, nature, and personal memories, making Gyotaku a unique and meaningful form of artistic expression. In this segment of the conversation, Dwight Hwang shares his journey from filmmaking to the art of Gyotaku, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in art and the energy that fresh fish brings to his prints. He discusses the challenges he faced during his transition, the pivotal moments that led him to embrace fish printing, and the collaborative efforts with his family in this unique art form. The conversation delves into the technical aspects of preparing fish for printing, the significance of Sumi ink and Washi paper, and the intricate techniques involved in capturing the essence of different fish species, including rare specimens like the anglerfish. In this conversation, Dwight Hwang shares his journey as an artist specializing in fish printing and human portraits. He discusses the intricate process of creating dynamic prints, the challenges of working with different subjects, and the emotional connections formed through art. Dwight also highlights the importance of family in his creative process and how his work has evolved to include powerful human stories, particularly in the context of social issues. The discussion emphasizes the therapeutic nature of art and the deep connections it fosters between the artist and the subjects.

Find Dwight's Website Here

See Dwight on Instagram Here