CMP Art

[RHClarke]

I have been collecting electronic version and published cartoons, advertisements and other drawings of CMP vehicles. I am now trying to find examples of wartime art (paintings, drawings etc...) from commercial, private and miitary artist sources that showcase our vehicles.

Eventually I would like to obtain a print, oil painting or even a sculpture of one of the CMP fleet in action. I note with great interest the "Airfix" thread (http://www.mapleleafup.net/forums/sh...ad.php?t=16965) where one of our own has put his talent on display.

I spoke with a local artist (Colonel Andre Gauthier - well known in the military art field http://everitas.rmcclub.ca/?p=1080) about the possiblity of commissioning him to produce a 8X10 inch bas-relief epoxy based sculpture that involved a number of various CMP vehicles arriving at a traffic control point in Holland (or Normandy). The initial thought was to have a motorcycle and jeep at a cross roads with a military or regimental policeman directing traffic. A UC, one C15 and a F15 would be clearly represented, and if the artist can make it happen perhaps a C15TA can be thrown in.

The cost to commission a piece of art for a limited run will be significant, and the resulting piece would be pricy. $2-$300 per is my initial planning figure for a 50 piece run - this does not include any administration, shipping, handling fees or taxes.

While I have many details to sort out, the main challenge would be to determine the "demand" for such a piece of art. So I put it to you collectors and restorers, would you spend that much for a piece of art?

Would a cheaper "Chinese made" alternative be more desireable ($50-$100)? The problem with the Chinese option is that you have to order in volume (hundreds to thousands). This option may be less pricy but also less practical.

I would be interested to know if there is indeed a demand for a CMP themed sculpture by an artist, or any interest at all in commissioning an artist to produce a series of CMP prints.