The Strike

The build

For this piece, I wanted to capture the split second every angler dreams about—the explosive strike of a trophy walleye. Instead of covering the entire aluminum surface, I used the brushed metal as part of the artwork itself, allowing it to become the shimmering water and add natural movement to the scene.

The artwork was printed on brushed aluminum supplied by Metals R Us. After hand-brushing the surface and applying an adhesion promoter, I printed it on my EufyMake E1 UV printer using relief printing. The layered UV ink creates real texture, giving the fish, lure, splashing water, and scales a lifelike three-dimensional appearance.

By combining the reflective qualities of brushed aluminum with UV relief printing, the image changes with the light, creating a sense of motion that brings the excitement of the catch to life.