Summer flags painted using fish printing technique

Six new summer flags depicting marine life, created using fish scales and crustacean claws, are on display in a coastal town.

Penzance Council said the three-metre-high flags, created by Newlyn-based artist Stevie McCrindle, would be on the promenade in the town centre for the 2026 season.

The artist said she used a traditional fish printing process rooted in the ancient Japanese art form of Gyotaku and she'd worked closely with fishermen to use locally caught fish from Newlyn.

McCrindle said she was "celebrating" local heritage in a "respectful and forward-thinking" way.

McCrindle explained she had painted directly onto the fish then paper was placed over the top to create an impression or print, before drawing fine lines to add detail to the different sea life.

The council said the designs were printed onto recycled fabric by local company, Sailflags.

McCrindle said: "The work has naturally evolved into something much broader than simply fish printing.

"Everything I create is deeply connected back to Newlyn, its fishing heritage and the concept of 'continuing the journey'.

"The fish used for printing are eaten afterwards rather than wasted, with bones, skins and even ash continuing into other creative processes."

McCrindle added: "What interests me most is connecting people back to provenance, place, materials and the sea, whilst celebrating Newlyn's heritage in a way that feels both respectful and forward-thinking."

Mayor of Penzance councillor Andy Law said the appearance of flags on the promenade signalled "the imminent arrival of Golowan and the summer".

He said: "I am particularly pleased, as a proud resident of Newlyn, at the prospect of Stevie McCrindle's amazing Gyotaku creations flying high above me as I walk from Newlyn into Penzance."

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.