The image is printed on navigational charts retired from use on the APL President Wilson. Six separate blocks were used (though the first is nearly invisible).
I chose to create the carp print after sailing around the Pacific and delivering cargo to Japan, China, and South Korea. The carp and koi fishes have strong cultural relevance in the region, and have historically been represented in visual art work. There is a Chinese legend of the Dragon’s Gate, which is described on Wikipedia: “The legend states that while many carp swim upstream against the river’s strong current, few are capable or brave enough for the final leap over the waterfall. If a carp successfully makes the jump, it is transformed into a powerful dragon.” The metaphor is one of struggle towards a worthy goal.
“The Anchor Radius” used three plates printed onto navigational charts. These charts were used in navigation of Foss tugboats. “Anchor Radius” is a term describing how far an anchored vessel can pivot around a fixed point (the fast anchor).
If interested, contact me via instagram DM @joshbarlas or email joshbarlas@gmail.com
“Nicholas Assists The Wayward Mariner, And All Those Aboard” is 8 plates printed onto Speedball Arnhem 1618 Printmaking Paper. It was made using a homemade printing press.
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