10/21 An Introduction to Scrimshaw

Traditional scrimshaw involved carving scenes of everyday whaling life into available materials. For early whalers, those were whale teeth and bones. Modern scrimshanders use a variety of materials, such as Corian, plastic shells and bone to create their images. 

This experience is intended as an introduction to a traditional folk art form. Sailors weren't artists. They were workers with time on their hands. For this class you need not be an experienced artist. My intention is to have you experiment with the material and your ideas. We live by the ocean. We are surrounded by all sorts of subjects. Maybe you have ideas of your own! Bring them to class! This should be fun above all else! 

Note: All materials will be provided. Wear work clothes. You will almost certainly get your hands into some India ink, so I will provide nitrile gloves so you don't get too inky. I look forward to exploring this interesting subject with you!

Instructor: Alex Murawski