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Gyotaku: The ancient Japanese art of printing fish - K. Erica Dodge

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TEDEd Animation

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How did fishermen record their trophy catches before the invention of photography? In 19th century Japan, fishing boats were equipped with rice paper, sumi-e ink, and brushes in order to create gyotaku: elaborate rubbings of freshly caught fish. K. Erica Dodge recounts the story of this competitive fishing culture, plus some tips on how to make your very own etchings.

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here ยป

Meet The Creators

  • Animator Eduardo Sandoval
  • Director Franco Barroeta Fonseca
  • Educator K. Erica Dodge
  • Sound Designer Luis Orlando Ruiz
  • Narrator Michelle Snow

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