Gnarly Fish Print

Harley Van Hyning is the creative force behind Gnarly Fish Prints which focuses on Gyotaku, an art practice rooted in a deep love for the water and a curiosity about the natural world. Raised on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Harley grew up fishing, surfing, and exploring the sea. Those early days on the water shaped his artistic voice and drove him toward the Japanese tradition of Gyotaku or fish printing, a method that records the form and spirit of fish using ink and paint.

Harley’s work bridges tradition and innovation. He honors the origins of Gyotaku while expanding its possibilities with color, acrylics and detailed enhancements. His prints celebrate the beauty and individuality of each fish species. Many works emerge from spontaneous moments when returned catches inspire him to record a memory with art as a fisherman watches.

His studio in Destin has hosted visitors and collaborators from diverse creative worlds. Harley has worked with athletes, brands and fellow artists on projects that reach beyond classic Gyotaku, like collaborative pieces with artist Justin Lyons, which blend distinct styles into original contemporary works.

His prints and paintings have appeared in shows and partner features with organizations and institutions including CBS Sports, Rolling Stone Magazine, Emeril Lagasse, the Salvador Dali Museum, BOTE Paddleboards, MOJO Sportswear and NOSSI College of Art.

Beyond creating prints and original paintings, Harley offers live dockside sessions and Gyotaku workshops, bringing his process to people who want to preserve their own fishing memories as art.

Whether he’s capturing a prized catch, collaborating with other creatives, or teaching his craft, Harley uses art to highlight the connection between humans and the sea.