Life At Sea

The "Life at Sea" photo exhibition offers a powerful and intimate look at the lives of seafarers — those unsung heroes who work tirelessly to keep the global trade economy afloat. Through a series of poignant images taken by seafarers themselves, the exhibition presents an insider’s view of daily life on board ships, shedding light on the often-overlooked human side of this essential workforce.

Through these images, the exhibition highlights the resilience, isolation, camaraderie, and pride that define life at sea. Whether capturing moments of profound solitude, the joy of small victories, or the sacrifices made to ensure global supply chains run smoothly, each photograph tells a story of hardship and hope. For many, this exhibition is a powerful reminder of the seafarers’ vital contributions —often invisible to the wider public.

At CT State Northwestern, we are incredibly proud to host this exhibition and bring attention to the spectacular photography that captures the essence of life at sea. This collection offers a rare opportunity for those outside the maritime world to connect with the human lives behind the shipping containers, cargo holds, and vast oceans. It is our hope that by showcasing these images, we can bridge the gap between the shoreline and the ships, fostering greater appreciation for the sacrifices made by this dedicated workforce.

This exhibition serves not only as a tribute to seafarers but as an educational tool, giving non-maritime audiences an unprecedented insight into the complex realities of life on board. We invite you to take a moment to reflect on the power of these images and the lives they represent. The stories shared here are not just about the challenges of the past, but also the ongoing realities that seafarers face every day—sacrifices that continue to shape our global economy.

All images are sourced from the ITF Seafarers' Trust's digital photo gallery www.lifeatsea.co.uk