Canadian Forces Artists Program deploys artists from current cohort; Call for artists for Group 12 now announced

October 30, 2025 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 2:15

Launched in 2001, the Canadian Forces Artists Program continues the tradition of Canadian military art which began over a century ago. Professional artists from across Canada deploy on operations with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and produce art which reflects the experience. The program operates out of the Directorate of History and Heritage.

Last fall, the program asked for hosts for the Group 11 artists. Because of the response, the program was able to send five artists on meaningful short deployments reflective of a wide number of taskings undertaken by the CAF. The program extends its thanks to those units who hosted artists.

Group 11 artists in action

In early February, writer V.S. Goela joined the team at ATF-Prestwick to see how the Royal Canadian Air Force transport units support OP PRESENCE, OP IMPACT, and OP REASSURANCE, and it was a very enriching experience for the artist.

Steven Cottingham, a multimedia artist, was hosted in early March at CFB Petawawa by the Simulation Training Centre. Steven is greatly interested in exploring how AI, virtual reality, and simulation training is used by the Department of National Defence, and his week in Petawawa gave him a great starting point for the research he is conducting.

HMCS St. John’s welcomed photographer Charles-Frédérick Ouellet in April. Being able to observe members of the Royal Canadian Navy as they participate in daily activities while at sea is a privilege, and Charles-Frédérick was pleased to be able to capture the ocean on a day when it was turbulent.

The 48th Highlanders responded to the call for hosts and offered sculptor/installation artist Victoria Verge an opportunity to travel to Apeldoorn for the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands, a significant commemorative event.

Filmmaker George Fok has returned from his time at Camp ADAZI, where he was present with the 2nd Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, as they celebrated their 75th Anniversary by leading the Multinational Artillery Battalion Group in Latvia.

Finally, with the Royal Visit of their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla added to the calendar this May, CFAP was able to call up painter Carole Freeman and invite her to record this monumental visit.

We look forward to the work that will be produced by this group of artists who will take their unique experiences with the CAF and translate them into something that can be understood by Canadian and international audiences when they exhibit at the Group 11 show in 2027.

Call for artists for Group 12

With the completion of the Group 11 deployment cycle, we are now pleased to announce the call for artists for Group 12. If you know of any professional civilian artists who are interested in exploring what the CAF does, urge them to apply to join the Canadian Forces Artists Program. The deadline for applications is November 30, 2025.