The Black Ball Packet Orpheus Leaving New York in 1835, oil on canvas, 19 112 x32 112 inches
conventional STEM curriculum by weaving maritime themes into science, technology, engineering, math, and art classes. By adding a maritime art exhibition of this caliber, the program becomes much more than just about vocational training. One local high school is developing art classes using the Stobart exhibition as a teaching tool, including studies of the artwork a nd a curatorial project based on an artifact from the museum's collection . This confluence of art and commerce stakes new gro und for the museum, achieving its mission while improving its releva nce to the Cape's cultural and business community. Beyond the opportunity to earn a certificate that serves as a stepping-stone to a potential career path , the youth programs serve as a way to capture the attention a nd im aginations of students deem ed at risk of dropping out of school. And the choice of Stobart's art is no coincidence. As he became a master of his craft , John Stobart also understood his responsibility to serve as a role model for up-and-coming artisans. His lifetime's work painting m aritime subj ects h as given him a deep appreciation for those in the maritime trades whose work is critical ro preserving the ships and boats he has long studied, revered, and depicted in his art. By m arrying the Stobart collection with student education, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum hopes to gain the attention of multiple generations and multiple facets of Cape Cod society-among them maritime aficionados, art lovers, local schools, and the boating community. 32
We expect John Stobart's p aintings will serve as a potent inspiration to the yo ung adults enrolled in the boatbuilding program. They ca n view the scope of life along our harbors and envision themselves as part of that history, contributing to it much as a great artist does. By providing the opportunity to view these incredible works of art upstairs in the museum gallery and to gain hands-on experience in boatbuilding dow nstairs in the shop, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum looks forward to sh arin g the wonders of sailing-its past and its future-with a new and engaged audience. j:,
Apprentice boatbuilders in the shop, and later out on the water conducting sea trials.
Join John Stobart at the museum for the opening reception on 15 July, and come back in July for a Sunday afrernoon conversation with the artist, who will give a presentation on his life, art, and the work of the Stobart Foundation: 16 & 23 July. T ickets must be reserved in advance. Cape Cod Maritime Museum, 135 South St. , H yan nis, MA; Ph. 508 775 -1723; www.capecodmaritimemuseum.org. The nineteen paintings and twelve prints in the exhibit are courtesy of the Kensington-Stobart Gallery in Salem, MA.
SEA HISTORY 159, SUMMER2017