The Navy: A Century in Art
The Navy at Sea

The Canadian navy is a creature of the sea. Its ships, equipment, tactics, and experiences have been conditioned by the major environments in which it serves. Historically, the most important of these have been Canada's long and ragged coasts and the storm-tossed northern waters connecting Canada to the world.

Signal Flag Hoist
Painted by Donald C. Mackay in 1943

The varied nature of naval service held great appeal for many.

Halifax native Donald C. Mackay's paintings often speak to the excitement of the navy, and to the relationship between sailors and the maritime environment. Navy life was often of particular appeal to volunteers from central Canada who, in many cases, had never seen an ocean prior to their enlistment.

Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-4251