Abstract
This article explores the intersections of labor and leisure in the creation of artwork made by professional sailors. Carving scrimshaw, drawing in journals, or creating intricate knot work was more than a response to boredom at sea. The act of creating art was influenced by an increasing awareness of leisure as a new social expectation. Art provided sailors with an outlet for self-expression. In the all-consuming work environment of the ship, making art allowed sailors to differentiate between their work time and their leisure time. The objects sailors made reflected their understandings of the world around them and their connection to other nineteenth century laborers. This article shows that sailor art, though created far out at sea, was deeply embedded in the social and cultural milieu of folk art in America.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
