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 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