I just love teaching art! This class was talented and fun to work with.
I think one of the hardest things to do in art is to slow down, relax, and take the time to let yourself create with peace. After a few minutes, I told the class just that; and that they had two full hours to create their pieces of scrimshaw.
The Josephy Center in Joseph, Oregon allowed me the opportunity to bring this New England tradition out here in the wild west.
Scrimshaw is relatively recent originating just over 200 years ago during the New England whaling days, the first was created on Sperm whale teeth. Historically speaking, scrimshaw artists (aka “scrimshanders”) were whalemen, sailors, or others who made their living on the sea. Life on a whaling vessel was often quite monotonous waiting for a whale sighting. Creating intricate art on the available materials was a great way to pass the time. They used materials taken from sea animals, mainly whales but also porpoises, walruses, and even mollusks. They tended to depict nautical scenes and motifs: ships, flags, anchors, and so on.
Update: Since holding the class at the Josephy Center, I have taught a number of school age classes the art. Their photos follow the Josephy Center pieces.
