By Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Special to The SUN
Gyotaku Japanese Fish Painting at the Rosa Campground facilities building — Friday, July 4, from 9 to 10 a.m. Kid’s Program. Learn the ancient art using real and reproduction fish with printer’s ink and rice paper. Everyone of all ages is welcome. No limit on class size.
Gyotaku (guh-yo-tah-koo) is the Japanese art of fish painting. It was developed more than a century ago as a fisherman’s method of recording the size and species of his catch. People developed this technique since they often could not read. Freshly caught fish were painted with a non toxic ink and covered with a piece of rice paper. The paper was then carefully smoothed down and removed to make an exact size copy of the fish. Kids get to learn about fish, handle real fish and reproductions creating their own unique artwork. This is an interactive program with ink, paint and markers — wear appropriate clothing.
Archery
Beginning Archery Classes for Kids — Saturday, July 5, from 9 a.m. to noon. Navajo State Park will hold introductory archery classes for ages 6-12 at the Sambrito Wetlands Nature Area. All materials are provided. The beginner archery class concentrates on range rules, safety rules, range courtesy and fundamentals of archery. The beginner session is appropriate for those who have never shot a bow, or those with some previous experience.
Children should wear sturdy shoes and be dressed appropriately for the weather. The Sambrito Wetlands are located on the western-most section of Navajo State Park near the town of Allison. To get to the Sambrito Wetlands Area, head west on Colo. 151 towards Ignacio. Turn south onto County Road 988 from Colo. 151 (mile marker 13) just east of Allison. Follow County Road 988 all the way to the entrance of Sambrito Wetlands.
The class is limited to 10 kids. To sign up for the class, stop by the front desk of the Navajo State Park Visitors Center, or call the park at 883-2208.
Fishing
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is inviting kids 12 and under to enjoy a free fishing clinic Sunday, July 6 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Navajo State Park handicapped fishing area along the Piedra River on Colo. 151, approximately 5.2 miles north of Arboles. The event begins at 9 a.m. and will last about two hours.
Among the various topics, participants will learn about the basics of casting, lures and bait, and will explain how angling plays an important part in managing Colorado fisheries.
The class is limited to the first 10 kids that register. All fishing equipment will be provided, however, water, bug spray, sunscreen, snacks, hats and other personal items are recommended.
Call 883-2208 for more information or log on to the park’s website at www.parks.state.co.us/Parks/Navajo.
