Sailor Made

This new exhibition features more than 60 items made by sailors or artisans at sea. For centuries, sailors have used their leisure time to create objects and artworks that document life at sea, commemorate historic events or simply celebrate the extraordinary skill of the maker.

Scrimshaw – carved or engraved whale ivory or walrus tusks, made by whalers – is one of the most well-known, sailor-made arts. Over hundreds of years, many began additional hobbies using materials they had on hand to fill their time while traveling the oceans.

Visitors to the exhibition will see works of art, scrimshaw, and decorative knotwork, commemorative and household items that will provide a glimpse into the daily lives of those who made their livelihoods on the sea.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website