Gus' Boat, Lincolnville 

Linwood Easton created this etching, Gus' Boat, Lincolnville, sometime before his death in 1939. It depicts a modest boat harbored at a simple dock near the shore. What is the public role of this art? Etchings were often made to be reproduced, sold, and collected by ordinary people. The relative affordability of etchings made them a democratic form, a stark contrast with unique oil paintings owned by wealthy elites. Easton's picture creates meaning through its depiction of everyday life. It shows a typical working boat, a common sight in Maine during this period. The scene evokes a sense of place and local identity. It’s a snapshot of small-town life, far removed from the grand narratives of history. Easton’s choice of subject reflects a broader trend in American art during the early 20th century: an interest in the lives of ordinary people. The print is not overtly political, but its democratic aesthetic embodies the values of its time. This etching reminds us that art history is not just about masterpieces, but it also encompasses the everyday images that reflect the values and experiences of a particular time and place.