Charlie Brown is a creator of Japanese Gyotaku art - literally translated as “fish rubbings.” In Japan and China in the early 1820’s this inking of the fish and applying to paper was used to record a catch and prove the size of the fish.
The documentary follows the actual process that Brown takes from beginning to end to create these uniquely beautiful works of art from the actual fish itself. Each step requires extreme patience and skill to produce the beauty that results. First, one must prepare the fish by laying it on top of a board and placing the fins and tail on a higher support so the entire outline of the fish will transfer to the paper. Due to the softness, the eye is removed. The fish is then placed in the refrigerator to dry out before the paint is applied. Once dried out, the base coat of paint is applied and then the fins are painted, usually a darker color for contrast. The paper is then laid over the top of the fish and is carefully pressed down so the paper will absorb the outline of the fish. Afterwards, Charlie hand fills in the intricate areas and uses a stamping process to sign his name.
Some lucky anglers will forego eating their catch and instead opt to have Charlie turn it into a beautiful piece of artwork that will last a lifetime. His unique craft and style has attracted the admiration of many art collectors.