Editor's Pick Deep Hawaii Art: "bowe's Mū" Gyotaku In Koa With Tracking [SVk3lCpY]

Editor's Pick Deep Hawaii Art: "bowe's Mū" Gyotaku In Koa With Tracking [SVk3lCpY]

Experience the beauty of Hawaiian marine life with this exquisite "Bowe's Mū" Gyotaku, a unique piece of art crafted by the talented Lāna`i artist Kristin Belew. This life-size reproduction of a Bigeye Emperor Fish, known as a Mū in Hawaiian, is a testament to the artist's dedication and skill. The Gyotaku technique, a traditional Japanese style of fish printing, involves applying acrylic paint directly to the fish and pressing rice paper onto it to capture the image. This process ensures that each piece is one-of-a-kind, making it a cherished addition to any art collection.

Artistic Details and Features

This Gyotaku is not just a print; it's a custom reproduction piece embellished with Prismacolors on fine art paper, adding a vibrant and detailed touch to the original artwork. The size of this masterpiece is 20" x 24", and it comes matted and framed in a 1" solid Hawaiian Koa frame, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also showcases the sustainable growth practices of the wood. The outer dimensions with the frame are 22" x 26", making it a striking piece that will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of any room.

Unique Story and Symbolism

The Bigeye Emperor Fish, or Mū, holds significant cultural meaning in Hawaiian tradition. This fish, known for its ability to hover motionless and its unique molar teeth resembling human molars, is a fascinating subject for art. The story behind this Gyotaku is equally compelling. Created for Bowe, a friend and coworker of the artist, it celebrates Bowe's impressive feat of spearfishing the Mū with a Hawaiian sling spear. The Hawaiian word Mū itself carries multiple meanings, from destructive insects to public executioners, and even refers to the fish itself. This Gyotaku is not just a work of art; it's a piece that connects you to the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of Hawaii. With each purchase, you're not just acquiring a beautiful piece of art; you're supporting sustainable practices and contributing to the preservation of Hawaiian culture.