Workshop
Printing Gyotaku with Dwight Hwang

Dates:
Thursday, February 20, 2025

Hours:
7:00pm-8:30pm

Location:
The Japan Foundation, Los Angeles Hall
(5700 Wilshire Blvd.,#100, Los Angeles, CA 90036)
Admission: FREE

RSVP Required
 

Join us for an evening of fish print-making under the guidance of a master gyotaku artist! Dwight Hwang will present his process and then allow guests to participate in a hands-on experience. The event will demystify gyotaku and is sure to stir interest in a new hobby!

This workshop is part of the related events for the two-person exhibition ETHEREAL: Interpretations of the Ryūgūjо̄ Myth, opening on January 21.

Dwight will first give a live demonstration of his personal approach to traditional gyotaku, with a descriptive narration by Michael VanHartingsveldt. Following the demo, workshop attendees will be invited to participate in a gyotaku printing session and experience firsthand the skills needed to create exquisite prints. 

No prior experience is needed — however, guests should be prepared to walk away with sumi-covered hands and therefore dress accordingly (don’t worry, the sumi can easily be washed with only water and soap).

artist:

Dwight Hwang
Originally an award-winning filmmaker in both animation and live action, Hwang has now dedicated himself to the art of gyotaku, the traditional Japanese practice of fish printing, as well as European nature printing. Whether capturing the essence of fish, plants, birds, or even human figures, Hwang’s art goes beyond simple representation—it is a way of preserving memory, honoring life, and contemplating the fleeting beauty of existence. His work invites viewers to pause, reflect, and experience a moment of quiet awe at the perfect imperfection of life.

Instagram:  @dwighthwang_gyotaku
Website: www.dwighthwang.com

Related Programs

ART EXHIBITION
ETHEREAL: Interpretations of the Ryūgūjо̄ Myth

IN THE TUNE OF ART
KOKYU: Melancholic String Instrument

WORKSHOP
Painting Ethereal with Miki Yokoyama