Hog Island. Ribs of a Beginning Ship 1918

Thornton Oakley’s 1918 print, "Hog Island. Ribs of a Beginning Ship," depicts the construction of a ship during World War I. This dynamic artwork captures the energy and activity of shipbuilding, emphasizing the structural elements of the vessel as it takes shape. The use of graphite creates a sense of depth and texture, highlighting the details of the scaffolding and the forms of the ship’s hull. The inclusion of figures in the scene further emphasizes the scale of the construction project and the labor involved. This evocative depiction serves as a reminder of the vital role that shipyards played in the war effort.