Ancient Japanese Folklore

"With each rubbing the spirit of the fish is believed to pass into the fabric or paper on which it is rubbed and act like a talisman. A rubbing is reputed to bring good luck to all fishermen and those in small business."

Meet Jenny Bovey - Chatham, Cape Cod Artist and full time professional dead fish Rubber who practices the ancient Japanese art of Gyotaku (Gyo-fish, Taku-rubbing) on clothing, textiles and handcrafted papers.

Jenny uses real fish, crustaceans, mollusks, shellfish, and plant life by brushing them with color, then pressing and rubbing them onto fabrics and papers by hand. The result is a one-of-a-kind print. All original rubbings are completely washable and come with explanatory tags including a copy of the ancient Japanese folklore. Clothing, accesssories, wall prints, and other home furnishings are available.

For over 20 years "The Fish Rubbing Store" has featured only handmade original works which no doubt accounts for the fact it is a full time job. Julie is the star store manager.

One Store - One Artist - One of a kind Original Rubbings.