[McClelland Barclay] An established artist who had created recruiting posters for the navy, developed camouflage patterns, and designed the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, he immediately sought a position as an official artist, arguing that he could memorialize the human element of war—’the sweat and blood and courage our boys expend every time they face the enemy.’
In honor of Memorial Day, I wanted to share a little history about an artist who lost his life while serving the United States Navy. McClelland Barclay was born 1891 in St Louis. He was sent to live with his aunt and uncle after his mother passed. While living with his aund and uncle, he invested years of schooling into his art career and eventually brought it with him into his military career. As the quote above states, he created; recruiting posters, camouflage patterns, and even designed medals. As I kept reading about McClelland, I found that he didn’t stop there. He continued to experiment with his art well into his military career and his works were used by several popular brands. According to Wikipedia, these brands include Redbook, Country Life, Cosmopolitan, Paramount Pictures, Whitman’s Chocolates and many more!
What an inspiration to artists across all fields of work. He served his country in so many ways by staying the course when it came to his talents. I’m so glad I decided to share a bit of his story because I’m learning from all of this too. Alas, we must get to our tragic loss. According to Naval History and Heritage Command,
On 18 July 1943, Barclay was aboard LST-342 (Group 14, Flotilla 5) when it was torpedoed by Japanese submarine Ro-106 at 1:30 a.m. He had been on board since the first of the month, sketching and taking photographs, during which time LST-342 had been carrying ammunition and supplies to Rendova, New Georgia in the Solomon Islands from Guadalcanal. The torpedo struck the aft portion of the ship where officers and others, including Barclay, were berthed. The stern sank immediately. Barclay, along with most of the crew, perished. The bow of the LST remained afloat and was towed to a beach on the island of Ghavutu so that any useable equipment could be salvaged. Remains of the ship are still rusting there today. Barclay was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart Medal, and entitled to the American Defense Service Medal, Fleet Clasp; the Asiatic-Pacific Area Campaign Medal; the American Area Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.
Thank you, McClelland Barclay for staying true to your inner artist and showing the world that art is ours to have in any environment. Art is ours even after the critics have given us a firm no. For some of us, art is not just a hobby. It is used as a beacon of light, a suggestion to answer the call. And you my friend, did it until the end. I can only hope that I can stay as true to my own art as you have.
Rest in Peace
SUB SPOTTED – LET ‘EM HAVE IT! , ca. 1942 Medium: poster Size: 106 x 72.5 cm. (41.7 x 28.5 in.)
Darling, darling!’ cherry was thinking as she moved forward oil on canvas
Faust Medium: Paintings, Oil on Canvas Size: 40 x 30 in. (101.6 x 76.2 cm.)
Here’s where you can learn more about McClelland Barclay
Jayne is a writer. On her free time she likes to be with her family hiking outdoors and traveling. New England is her home and place of birth. When asked what she wants to teach the world she replied, "Don't stop searching. Too many times, in my old life, I put my search aside for more 'important matters.' I didn't realize the thing I was searching for held what was most important; my soul purpose." Jayne works daily on improving her craft and at times can get down on herself, but her favorite morning mantra is "It's a new day." and that's what she strives to start with.
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