The First World War through the eyes of artists and soldiers

Tanks, trenches and gas attacks. Dead and wounded comrades. During the First World War, artists and soldiers discovered that art was an effective way to express to other Canadians the horrors and heartache of what they witnessed. A century later, these works are helping younger generations understand and appreciate Canada’s role and sacrifices.

Witness – Canadian Art of the First World War, a travelling exhibition developed by the Canadian War Museum, opens at the University of Calgary’s Founders’ Gallery at The Military Museums with a free, public reception the evening of Feb. 7, 2018.

“As Canada’s foremost museum of military history, we are uniquely positioned to tell the many stories of the First World War,” says Stephen Quick, director general of the Canadian War Museum. “This exhibition uses unforgettable artworks from the Canadian War Museum’s Beaverbrook Collection of War Art to illuminate the impact of the First World War on individuals and the country.”

The exhibition includes 53 works by some of Canada’s best-known artists including AY Jackson, Arthur Lismer, Henrietta Mabel May, Paul Nash, Dorothy Stevens and Frederick Varley. Also featured is artwork by Canadian soldiers who served on the frontlines.

“Most of the art by soldiers has never been seen before,” explains Lindsey Sharman, curator of the Founders’ Gallery. “These works add to the totality of the powerful war record that we will present at the Founders’ Gallery.”

Witness is organized into four thematic sections: Canadians at War, Tools of War, Ruins of War and Landscapes of War.

Also opening February 7, in commemoration of the centenary of the Battle of Moreuil Wood, is The Battle of Moreuil Wood: 100 Years of Heroism curated by the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) Regimental Museum at The Military Museums. The Regiment was part of the Canadian Cavalry Brigade which, on March 30, 1918, defeated a German force at least twice its size. The battle in France resulted in heavy losses of soldiers and horses, with 53 of the Regiment killed, and a Victoria Cross being awarded to Lt. G.M. Flowerdew.

“We are excited to be able to showcase artifacts and stories from this heroic but not well known event in Canadian history," says Capt. Phil Webster, curator, Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) Regimental Museum. "This is a battle which showcased the heroism, dash and skill of Canadian soldiers in the Great War, and we hope this exhibit will help bring their story to light for anyone who has yet to hear it.” 

Witness – Canadian Art of the First World War and The Battle of Moreuil Wood: 100 Years of Heroism are on display in the Founders’ Gallery until May 27.

Public Opening Reception

Program includes remarks by Joanne Stober, Canadian War Museum, and Maj. Alfred Wong, Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) Second-in-Command.

Wednesday, February 7, 2018

6 p.m. 

The Founders' Gallery, The Military Museums of Calgary 

4520 Crowchild Trail, S.W.

Nickle at Noon lecture – Joanne Stober, Canadian War Museum

Thursday, February 8, 2018

12:00 p.m.

Gallery Hall – Main Floor, Taylor Family Digital Library