Part of
David Fish – in Retrospect
This two part* exhibition brings deserved attention to the Newport-based artist (1948-1995) whose work was well-recognized in western Oregon through the 1970&80’s and has continued, still, since his passing.
Incised Images: Selected Works in Scrimshaw
August 1 – September 27, 2025
Newport Visual Arts Center
COVAS Showcase
Scrimshaw: Adorn (whalebone, ivory, shells, or other materials) with carved or colored designs.
This exhibit features David Fish’s varied approach to working in scrimshaw, evident in the black-ink incised images skillfully aligned to the scale and material nature of an individual, fossilized bone surface—whether modest-size pendants and other use-objects, similarly inset, or the extended length and visual impact of an ivory [mastodon or walrus] tusk.
Such graphic, dark-light contrast brings focus to Fish’s selection of singular botanical or wildlife subjects, or to his re-presentations of Indigenous American portraiture [many sourced in iconic early 20th C. photographs of Edward S. Curtis], or to hybrid coastal views —where waves break below ‘stippled’ clouds, adjacent to fragmented geometric patterns.
An opening reception will be held on Friday, August 1st from 5-7pm
All are welcome; admission is free.
* This exhibit runs simultaneously with Pacific Views – featuring Fish’s fine line, pen, and ink renderings on paper – on display August 1 – September 28 at Olive Street Gallery (777 W Olive Street, Newport). Learn more at coastarts.org/events/fish-renderings
To help ensure an enjoyable experience for all, we kindly encourage guests to consider attending fragrance-free in support of those with allergies and sensitivities.
David Fish graduated with the class of 1968, Newport High School, where he furthered his interest in drawing and graphic arts as a student of Newell G. Murri. He was a pivotal figure in the community of independent artists and artisan silversmiths who worked collectively at the Hilan Castle in Newport, to produce scrimshaw for Many Feathers Trading Company, founded by Tree Many Feathers in 1975. Fish developed the company’s brand-logo and led the Scrimshaw Department for two years.
From Capitol Journal March 20, 1976…
Scrimshaw is a nautical term of uncertain origin. It describes a form of ivory handwork that may have originated in New England whalers who scratched nautical scenes on a sperm whale’s teeth with a sailmaker’s needle.
Using carbon steel awls, the artist patiently produces illustrations on the ivory that eventually will be sold at handcraft markets across the U.S.
The ivory is that of the woolly mammoth, a beast that has been extinct for 10,000 years. It is obtained from the Alaskan tundra by Eskimos and miners. Eskimos find mastodon ivory thawed out of the Arctic permafrost, or it’s uncovered by Alaskan miners. We use two or three tons a year. But we can’t work in whale, walrus, or elephant. Mastodon may be the last remaining legal ivory on the planet.