WWI propaganda poster on display at the Founders’ Gallery, Calgary
Propaganda Photo Gallery || Credit: Step Into Your Place Lithograph, British Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, 1915. UCalgary Libraries and Cultural Resources, CU115275308

The Founders' Gallery at The Military Museums in Calgary is home to thought-provoking art exhibitions that explore conflict, memory, and identity. This fall and winter, visitors can experience two remarkable shows that connect Canada's military past with conversations that still resonate today.

PROPAGANDA! Harbingers for Today

On view June 12, 2025–February 16, 2026

PROPAGANDA! Harbingers for Today examines how First World War propaganda shaped Canada during and after the conflict. Co-curated by Kim Geraldi and Dick Averns, the exhibition draws from the University of Calgary's Special Collections and Archives to highlight themes of conflict, gender, Indigenous Peoples, migration, and labour, with a particular focus on Alberta's history.

The exhibition demonstrates how wartime posters and messaging influenced public opinion, catalyzed social change in the 1920s and 30s, and continue to raise timely questions about media, influence, and identity today. Visitors will see rare archival materials and striking visuals that show how propaganda both reflected and reshaped society.

Far From Home: Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry 110 Years of Art

On view October 3, 2024 – February 17, 2025

Curated by LCol Bill Bewick (Ret'd), Far From Home traces the 110-year story of Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI). Raised in 1914 with support from Montreal philanthropist Hamilton Gault, the PPCLI was the first Canadian infantry regiment to reach Europe during the First World War.

This anniversary exhibition brings together works created by artists — both soldiers and civilians — who bore witness to conflict firsthand. Highlights include:

  • Jack MacLaren's watercolours painted on active duty in France and Belgium during the First World War.
  • Charles Comfort's famous imagery from the Second World War Italian Campaign.
  • Gertrude Kearns' Art of Command portrait series created in Afghanistan.
  • Bill (William) MacDonnell's large canvases were developed from sketches and photographs captured in the Balkans during the Yugoslav Wars.

Together, these works reveal the power of art to record, interpret, and humanize the experience of war.

Both exhibitions offer unique perspectives on how Canadians have understood and represented military service across generations. Visitors are encouraged to experience them in person at the Founders' Gallery, The Military Museums, Calgary.

Plan Your Visit to The Military Museums