From Ocean to Art: The Ancient Tradition of Fish Rubbing in China

When Fishermen Turned Fish Into Masterpieces

In the coastal county of Xiangshan, Ningbo, a quirky tradition has thrived for centuries: fish rubbing. Before modern art supplies, fishermen used what they had – ink from cuttlefish, dead fish, and red paper – to create New Year decorations. \"It was our version of papercutting,\" says Lu Shenggui, a local artist keeping the tradition alive.

From Folklore to Eco-Friendly Art

Today, fish rubbing isn’t just nostalgia – it’s evolved into a sustainable art form. Artists swap squid ink for plant-based dyes, pressing red paper onto fish to capture every scale and fin in striking detail. The results? Lifelike prints that blend science, ecology, and creativity.

Kids Dive Into Marine Heritage

Lu now teaches the craft to kindergarteners, who reimagine fish prints with rainbow colors and playful patterns. \"It’s about connecting them to the sea,\" he says. This mix of old and new ensures the tradition rides the tide into the future.

Reference(s):

Legacy Trails: Echoes of the sea in the art of fish rubbing

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