The culmination of a lifetime of research and passion.
Shane Couch does not simply create art - he reconstructs history.
The America's Cup began on August 22, 1851, when the yacht America defeated every vessel on the Isle of Wight. What follows is over a century of racing that few have witnessed - most of which are preserved only in written accounts.
Drawn to this moment in time, Shane Couch has spent years mulling over race reports and researching the America's Cup out of a desire not only to understand the history of yachting - but to experience it.
Let's start at the beginning.
A tremendous amount of work goes into each and every piece. Shane first studies the original race reports, waiting for a moment to capture his attention. He focuses on the conditions of the water at the time, the dimensions of the yachts, the path that they take: whether to it's victory or defeat.
From there, he builds. Detailed 3D renderings. Handcrafted scale models. Even a wind machine to replicate the billowing of the sails. Replica uniforms are commissioned. A life-sized deck is constructed. With the sun positioned exactly as it would have been, Shane and his wife pose as the helmsman and afterguards.
The Collector's Preview
What an incredible evening.
It is always special to share these moments with our collectors. Moving forward, one of our priorities is to document more of what goes into these exhibitions - the process, the discipline, the artist's process behind these finished pieces.
Let it Go marks a shift. Shane had to truly let go of the limitations and hesitations that once held him back. What remains is his work at its most refined and uninhibited.
These are not distant historical scenes. They are full of light and life. Masts are cut, rules are broken, and you are brought closer than ever before. In many of these works, you don't just observe the scene - you're in it.
If you were unable to attend the Collector Preview, Shane's short documentary on his process will officially premier at the Sarasota Film Festival the weekend of April 10th.
We will be sharing updates on timing on our socials, and releasing a recording of the live conversation with Shane Couch from the Preview through our newsletter.
The Collection