Novice and experienced artists of all ages are invited to learn about the unique art form of Japanese fish painting known as Gyotaku (guh-yo-tah-koo) at Navajo State Park, 9 a.m. on Monday. Gyotaku was developed more than a century ago as a fisherman's method of recording the size and species of his catch. Freshly caught fish were painted with a non-toxic ink, and covered with a piece of rice paper. The paper was then carefully smoothed down, and removed to make an exact size copy of the fish. Once the print was completed, the fish could be washed and prepared for a meal. By using this technique, Japanese fishermen were able to both record and eat their catch.
The session includes learning how to use artist's ink, professional rice paper with real fish and with fish reproductions, including fossil fish. No preregistration is needed. Participants will gather at the Rosa Campground visitors service building/showers patio. Children and adults of all ages are welcome to attend.
Classes in the art form will also be offered on June 6, June 21 and July 4.
The program is free, but every vehicle entering the park must have a pass. The daily entry fee is $7, and an annual pass costs $70. The park offers more than 100 camp sites, many with full hook-ups, and three cabins are available for rent. To reserve a camp spot or a cabin, call (800) 678-2267, or go to the reservation section of the Colorado Parks and Reservation website, http://coloradostateparks.reserveamerica.com.
For more information about camping, boating or fishing anywhere in Colorado, go to: cpw.state.co.us.
