All paintings reproduced by kind permission of the Imperial War Museum

Whilst working for the Unit, the artists were given time off to create new paintings which were sold to the Crown. This caused controversy when the Ministry of Finance questioned why the State was buying the artwork, when the artists were already employed by the government. One official wrote, “I really think that C.D.C.E. have gone off the rails on this one!” Eventually, Finance’s concerns were over-ruled and the artists were paid 2 guineas extra.

The artists’ work also included mural painting. In groups of two or three they were sent to factories, hospitals and rehabilitation homes to consult with the workers and patients about the content of this public art.

Artificial Trees
B.V. Bishop

Cooling Tower
Colin Moss

Textured Netting for Camouflage
Edwin Le Dell

Camouflaged Roofs
Colin Moss

This view is of Lockheed factory in Leamington Spa

Water Camouflage
Colin Moss

Camouflaging a Cruiser in Dock
Victorine Foot