Susie with Adam Henson on BBC Countryfile

Fish Rubbing Workshops with Susie Ray

With no skills required, this fun workshop will send you home intricate prints to wow your friends with.

Fun For All Abilities From Absolute Beginner To Artist

The Origin


Inspired by the Japanese art form of Gyotaku which dates back to the mid 1800’s when fisherman took rubbings as a way to record the fish that they caught, this highly unique and sought-after printmaking workshop is a contemporary take on an ancient tradition with a stunning Susie Ray twist.

Painting classes in cornwall - fish

The Process

Using oil paints and cotton cloth - the modern alternative to the edible ink and rice paper of yesteryear - you will follow in the footsteps of those fisherman and produce a series of unique and striking pieces of artwork. You will capture the incredible detail and intricate markings of beautiful Cornish fish, and have fun playing with different coastal objects handpicked and prepared by Susie. Fish, shells, feathers and other seashore gems found along the coast will be available, as well as the benefit of Susie’s exquisite experience in this rare and almost forgotten art form.

Art classes in cornwall

The Workshop

This fun workshop requires no artistic skills at all and gives you the all the tips you need to continue to create these beautiful prints at home. At the end of the workshop you will leave with a number of prints ready to frame or hang as beautiful additions to your home.

A typical fish rubbing workshop includes:

  • Welcome and workshop introduction

  • Fish rubbing demo from Susie

  • Tips and tricks to get impressive results

  • One-on-one guidance from Susie

  • Opportunity to experiment and have fun with various objects

  • How to prepare items for printing at home

  • All your amazingly detailed artwork to take home with you

  • All materials are included

  • Aprons to protect your clothes but please wear comfortable and older clothes just in case.

  • Tea, coffee and cakes will be served throughout to you can concentrate on immersing yourself in this fun creative process.

    For groups of 6 – 12 people
    Typically 4 hours
    Suitable for everyone, absolutely no experience needed

Minimum age is 14, minimum class size is 6 people.
If the minimum number is not enrolled we reserve the right to postpone the course.

Fish painting classes in cornwall for beginners

As featured on BBC
Escape To The Country

Fish rubbing painting class in cornwall

Examples of Students work from our most popular class, some complete beginners, some recreational artists

“This is possibly one of the best courses I've ever done. I have very limited artistic ability but love to try and I came away with such beautiful prints. Thank you Susie, I can't wait to go and show off all my work”

Rachel S