‘No happy paintings’: Dozens of art works by Canadian war artist at Calgary exhibit

Renowned Canadian war artist Bill MacDonnell has spent the past thirty years travelling the globe as a self-proclaimed silent witness, capturing the darkness and devastation of conflict in his paintings. From Bosnia to Afghanistan, his work serves as a haunting reminder of the atrocities of war and the impact it has on communities.

MacDonnell’s art not only documents the immediate aftermath of war but also delves into the themes of cultural amnesia and forgotten histories. His powerful imagery has inspired a new generation of artists to follow in his footsteps, shining a light on the forgotten stories of the past.

Currently, an exhibit of MacDonnell’s work is on display at the Military Museums in Calgary, running through Remembrance Day and into 2025. The exhibit showcases over two dozen paintings, many of which depict the aftermath of war with destroyed buildings and landscapes.

One of MacDonnell’s most striking paintings on display is “Mined Churchyard,” which depicts a bombed Serbian church in Bosnia. The somber tones and haunting imagery evoke a sense of loss and destruction, highlighting the harsh realities of war.

Curator Dick Averns, who has studied MacDonnell’s work extensively, notes that the artist’s focus on unseen areas and forgotten histories is a central theme in his art. MacDonnell’s ability to capture the raw emotion and devastation of war is evident in each brushstroke, drawing viewers into a world of pain and suffering.

Despite the dark subject matter of his paintings, MacDonnell’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict. Through his art, he brings to light the untold stories of war and challenges viewers to confront the uncomfortable truths of our shared history.

The exhibit at the Military Museums is a rare opportunity to experience MacDonnell’s work firsthand, as it marks his first exhibition in Western Canada since 2006. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the haunting beauty of his paintings and reflect on the lasting impact of war on communities around the world.