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.

Protection
Painted by Donald C. Mackay around 1943

During wartime ocean crossings, traveling in convoys offered protection against enemy submarines.

Mackay's painting reflects the moody tension of a typical north Atlantic passage during the Second World War. The sailors in the foreground are signaling another ship from the bridge of HMCS Restigouche, a destroyer escorting a large convoy of troop ships, including the four-funnelled liner Aquitania (centre left).

Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-4245