Discover how Westlink International School brings Gyotaku Japanese art into learning through the ILOS Artist programme, nurturing creativity, cultural awareness, and global perspectives.

Gyotaku Japanese Art at Westlink International School

At Westlink International School, we believe that art is not just about drawing - it is a bridge to understanding the world. Recently, our campus was buzzing with creative energy as students explored the ancient Japanese art of Gyotaku, a unique experience brought to life through our prestigious ILOS Artist program. What happens when ancient Japanese tradition meets the creativity of Westlink students?

Exploring Japanese Printmaking Through ILOS Artist

The ILOS Artist program is a cornerstone of Westlink’s commitment to providing a world-class, holistic education. By bringing professional artistic techniques into the classroom, we allow students to engage with "Real-World Learning" in a way that textbooks simply cannot match.

In this latest session, students stepped away from traditional brushes and pens to immerse themselves in the delicate world of Japanese printmaking. This hands-on workshop provided a platform where creativity and history intersected, allowing Westlinkers to see themselves as part of a global artistic community.

What Is Gyotaku and Why It Matters in Art Education

Gyotaku (from "gyo" meaning fish and "taku" meaning rubbing) is a traditional Japanese printing method dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally used by fishermen to record their catches, it has since evolved into a refined and celebrated art form.

In art education, Gyotaku is invaluable because it teaches observation. Unlike digital art, it requires students to touch, feel, and respect the organic textures of nature. It transforms a simple biology lesson into a profound artistic expression.

How Westlink Students Experience Gyotaku in Class

During this unique session, our young artists used tracing paper to create intricate prints inspired by marine life. Through the delicate process of pressing and rubbing, Westlink students successfully captured:

• Fine details: The microscopic patterns of fins and scales.

• Organic outlines: The flowing, natural shapes of sea creatures.

• Natural textures: The transition of raw, physical surfaces into expressive, ocean-themed masterpieces.

Skills Students Develop Through Gyotaku Art

The Gyotaku workshop at Westlink is designed to do more than produce beautiful gallery pieces. It is a vehicle for personal growth, helping students develop essential IB learner profile attributes and life competencies:

• Global Cultural Awareness: By practicing a centuries-old Japanese craft, students build a deep connection with global traditions, fostering empathy and international-mindedness.

• Inquiry & Reflection: Students ask "how" and "why" textures transfer to paper, reflecting on the relationship between nature and art.

• Focus & Patience: The process cannot be rushed. It teaches the value of slow, deliberate craftsmanship in a fast-paced world.

• Confidence & Self-Expression: Empowering independent learners to express their unique vision through a medium they have never tried before.

ILOS Artist: Connecting Art, Culture, and Real-World Learning

The success of the Gyotaku project highlights the core mission of the ILOS Artist program at Westlink. We don't just teach art; we connect creativity with real-world understanding.

By blending culture, history, and hands-on skills, Westlink International School ensures that our students are not just academically proficient, but are also culturally literate and creatively bold. Through experiences like Gyotaku, we are cultivating the next generation of global citizens who see the world through a lens of curiosity and respect.

Experience how we blend culture, art, and real-world skills. 

Would you like to learn more about other arts-based extracurricular programs at Westlink? 

Contact us today!