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Special Themes

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.

Andrew Wetmore Spotting Some Whales off the Starboard BowPainted by Douglas Bradford in 2004
Andrew Wetmore Spotting Some Whales off the Starboard Bow
Painted by Douglas Bradford in 2004

Since its creation in 1910, the navy has been a watchful guardian of Canadian interests.

This vivid watercolour reflects the navy's sentinel-like function during and after the Cold War and the stolid professionalism of its personnel. Bradford put to sea with HMCS Calgary in the Pacific in 2004. He was struck by the variety of the ship's functions, the enthusiastic welcome he received from its youthful crew, and the quiet beauty of the maritime environment.

CWM 20070020-012





St. Lawrence Convoy Painted by Harold Beament in 1943
Protection Painted by Donald C. Mackay around 1943
Canadian Motor Torpedo Boats Leaving Dover for Night Patrol Painted by Thomas (Tom) Wood in 1944
Examination Officer Boarding Merchant Ship Painted by Donald C. Mackay in 1943
Rescue-Firing a Coston Gun Line Painted by Harold Beament around 1944
Signal Flag Hoist Painted by Donald C. Mackay in 1943
Shaft Tunnel, SS Kelowna Park (Can)Painting by Peter Whalley around 1945
Iced Up Painted by Donald C. MacKay in 1944
Fog Painted by Donald C. Mackay in 1943
Snowberry K-166 Painted by Fred Thearle in 1988
Andrew Wetmore Spotting Some Whales off the Starboard Bow Painted by Douglas Bradford in 2004
Awaiting the Return of the Aircraft Squadron Painted by Frank Leonard Brooks in 1944
Tangled Float No.2 Painted by Leonard Brooks in 1944