Clouded in mystery, the narwhal is the “unicorn of the sea” and first cousin to the beluga whale. Although a reclusive creature, the narwhal is a mammal that plies the Arctic waters in pods ranging from 10 to 100. It grows to 13-18 feet and can weigh up to 3500 pounds. Its swordlike tusk, which is actually a twisted tooth, can be sometimes 8 feet long and occasionally doubled in males. It is estimated that the population of this legendary deep diving (1300-4500 ft.) sea creature is 50K-170K. Although not an endangered species, the narwhal is vulnerable to climate change. Its predators are polar bears that lurk at ice holes, and orcas that attack pods. Inspiration for a seafaring themed BRC 5-stringer came from a family trip to the island of Nantucket last summer and a visit to its Whaling Museum.
Amidst 113 paintings, sculptures, photographs, and mixed media works at the community Art League`s summer show, the BRC founder`s banjo “Seeking the Narwhal” hangs on a central pillar adjacent to his wife’s painting “River in the Woods.” His spouse is seen discussing her oil painting with a curious patron while the banjo attracts little notice.
A
t the gala opening reception, however, The Narwal garnered a ribbon and was promptly purchased by a local blacksmith who forges metal sculptures for Art League shows.
The blacksmith then invited the banjo builder and grandkids to a tour of his smithy for a metal art demonstration, and the skillful artisan is pictured below at his anvil with hammer in hand.
A BRC granddaughter, whose favorite sea animal is the narwhal, later celebrated the ribbon and metal shop tour with an ice cream treat.
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