Donald Cameron MacKay's oil sketch depicts the seemingly endless winter task of removing accumulated ice from ships.

In this painting, two members of HMCS Shawinigan's crew use axes to remove ice build-up from a depth charge launcher. Ice from waves and spray could rapidly accumulate on ships, threatening their stability through its added weight and interfering with the operation of weapons and equipment. Shawinigan took part in escort work in Canadian waters, including the Gulf of St. Lawrence, prior to being sunk off the Newfoundland coast in November 1944.

Iced Up
Painted by Donald C. MacKay in 1944
Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-4230