Embassy of Canada Art Gallery in Washington

The Military Portraiture of Gertrude Kearns

Gertrude Kearns in her studio with the Gen Carignan and Gen Petraeus portraits

Gertrude Kearns is one of Canada’s most acclaimed contemporary war artists, renowned for her compelling and psychologically charged portrayals of military personnel. Over the past three decades, Kearns has created a body of work that explores the complexities of leadership, sacrifice, and moral tension within the context of armed conflict. Her portraits – often stark, confrontational, and profound – have been exhibited nationally and collected by major institutions, including the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, Trinity College in the University of Toronto, and the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC. Kearns has also served as an official war artist with the Canadian Forces, embedding with troops in Afghanistan and producing works that challenge conventional narratives of heroism and duty, often considering the complex nature of missions. 

This exhibition highlights key figures from the Canada-U.S. defence relationship, underscoring the enduring partnership between our two nations. Through Kearns’ expression, visitors encounter commanding officers, strategic thinkers, and frontline leaders whose roles have shaped joint military operations, peacekeeping missions, and continental security. Among the works displayed are portraits of General Jennie Carignan, Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff, and General David Petraeus, former Commander of U.S. Central Command. The Embassy is a fitting venue for this dialogue – where diplomacy meets defense, and where art becomes a conduit for understanding shared values and responsibilities. 

The Canada-U.S. defence relationship remains vital in today’s global landscape. From NORAD’s binational continental defence missions, to joint deployments in NATO operations, our two countries continue to collaborate closely on matters of security and strategic stability. Coordinated efforts are ongoing in cyber defence and Arctic sovereignty, where interoperability and mutual trust are paramount. Kearns’ portraits remind us that behind every policy and protocol are individuals whose decisions and actions uphold the safety and integrity of both nations.

The Military Portraiture of Gertrude Kearns opens September 22 and runs through December 19, 2025. The Embassy’s art gallery is located at 501 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W. and is open to the public Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, free of charge.