Luseland’s Shipmates display their crafts

By Joan Janzen

The work of two local artists is featured at the Luseland Library Art Gallery’s latest exhibition. On Saturday afternoon, March 2nd, Luseland residents Shaun Gagne and Jared Fischer were at the library where their model ships were on display. The duo, referred to as Shipmates, were available to mingle with everyone who came to see their display, as well as answer any questions they may have had.

Not only were guests able to learn about the incredible art of model shipbuilding, but they also were able to see Shaun and Jared work on ships in progress throughout the afternoon. This is the first time their model ships have been on display for the public to view.

“Shipmates” Shaun Gagne (left) and Jared Fischer were on hand at the Luseland Library on a snowy Saturday afternoon to show off their model ship display and answer any questions. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Librarian Kate Hughes was on hand throughout the afternoon. She also supplied a brief account of how Shaun and Jared’s shipbuilding exploits first began.

It was a dark and stormy night when Shaun Gagne and Jared Fischer met during a karaoke event at the local watering hole and became fast friends. It wasn’t until that one fateful evening when Shaun showed Jared a model ship kit he had been carrying with him for nearly fifteen years that their crafts set sail.

Shaun Gagne, a retired truck driver, moved to Luseland in 2015 and quickly established himself in the community. After working on the road for many years, he picked up the hobby of model shipbuilding just in time for his retirement.

While in his 20s, Shaun had dabbled in model ship building, completing two ships before turning his attention to other pursuits. Now, after picking up a paintbrush and super glue once more, he has completed five ships, with another in the model shipyard. He not only has a passion for building models but also loves learning the history of the vessels and sharing his passion with others.