Dwight Hwang, a master of the ancient art of Gyotaku, has built a remarkable career by blending tradition with modern creativity. Born in Los Angeles, Dwight’s journey into Gyotaku – a Japanese art form that involves making prints from actual fish – is as unique as the works he creates. From initially studying to be an animator, Dwight found his true passion in this age-old practice that combines his love for nature, respect for marine life, and an incredible eye for detail.
Today, Dwight Hwang’s Gyotaku prints are celebrated worldwide for their authenticity, beauty, and ability to capture the essence of the sea’s creatures in a way that few other art forms can. Through his work, Dwight not only preserves a traditional Japanese technique but also brings to life the stories of the oceans, rivers, and lakes that inspire him. His career is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the unexpected paths it can lead you down.
What sparked your connection to the ocean?
Ever since I was a little boy, the two things that filled my days were art and fish. Art was all I ever wanted to do. The weather could be perfect but it wouldn’t matter as I’d always opt to draw whatever was in my head. I was also equally passionate about fish. Fishing, visiting fish markets, seeing tropical fish at pet stores, it all fascinated me and still does.
So when I found gyotaku prints pinned up on the walls and ceilings of a tackle shop in Japan, it took my breath away. Self taught and over a decade later, I’ve replaced my long storyboarding career in movies and animation for a unique profession printing aquatic life.
What’s your most unforgettable Gyotaku experience?
There have been so many wonderful experiences that I am so grateful for. Printing a flounder in Alaska with the host of “River Monsters” Jeremy Wade as my audience, on tour with Patagonia to share my technique and philosophies and a number of their stores, living and printing on a NOAA research vessel for three weeks…it goes on and on. But I think the latest most memorable one was being invited by the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History to print the rare football anglerfish that made international news when it washed up in pristine condition on a local beach.
What’s the biggest challenge beginners face when starting Gyotaku?
The process is simple, so think simple.
The gyotaku process is quite simple. Brush ink onto the surface and then apply paper on top. I think that is probably the most difficult hurdle for many beginners is to lower their expectations of a “perfect” print. Perfection isn’t something that comes about with luck. It is produced by years of repetition and pushing oneself to perfect their process. And in doing so, the results will follow.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Generally, I start with isolating an emotion or complex emotions that I wish to convey in a piece. Though the majority of what I print may be aquatic life, if it contains a human emotion, then others will be able to relate to it.
Where can people learn more about you and your craft?
Yes, people can visit www.dwighthwang.com for information regarding the art form, my technique, how to go about purchasing, etc. What I keep updated most is my account on Instagram. Â
Which marine destination tops your bucket list?
I would love to visit and create art in the Antarctic, the Amazon River, the massive river systems in China and Southeast Asia…honestly, it doesn’t really matter where. It is all very fascinating to me!
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being an entrepreneur?
The most rewarding part of pursuing my passion in this art and turning into a business, is that I get to structure my life and time the way I want to. I do what I love, my family is able to work and travel together and thus experience incredible things together. I can’t say that I have that many fond memories working inside a studio or office. But these days, every day is enjoyable and filled with contentness.
I often hear people tell me that I’m brave for pursuing what I enjoy. I think it’s the other way around. I think they’re braver for dedicating their lives for something that they’re not 100% passionate about.
