Summer News and an Exciting Launch!
JUST LAUNCHED August 1st!
Extremely excited to share some news with you all, as I have been waiting patiently until launch day so I can! Next time you reach for a loonie in your wallet, look carefully! Some of you may have known that since 2019 I have designed three commemorative coins for the Royal Canadian Mint, and now there is a forth! This one however is extra special as it is a GENERAL CIRCULATION COIN. What does that mean? It means, it is going to be cruising around Canada in your change as of release day TODAY!
Who is represented on this Coin?
Elizabeth MacGill (1905-1980) was the first female aeronautical engineer in Canada and made significant contributions to aircraft design during World War II. As a stress analyst at the Canadian Car and Foundry, she played a vital role in designing the Hawker Hurricane, a fighter aircraft used by the Royal Canadian Air Force. Her expertise ensured the aircraft's structural integrity and improved its performance.
Later, as the chief aeronautical engineer, MacGill led the development of the Maple Leaf Trainer (Fairchild Cornell), a primary trainer aircraft for RCAF pilots. She contributed to its design, including aerodynamics, control systems, and safety features, ensuring its suitability for training purposes.
MacGill's achievements challenged gender norms and paved the way for women in engineering. Her work on the Hawker Hurricane and the Maple Leaf Trainer showcased her technical prowess and dedication to advancing Canadian aviation. She remains an inspiration for future generations, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diverse perspectives in the field of aeronautical engineering. More information about her story can be found on the Royal Canadian Mint website.
I really enjoy designing coins for the Royal Canadian Mint. It is quite a challenging process as the images need to be vetted for accuracy so there is a lot of back and forth with my fabulous RCM art director as we iron out tiny details, but once they are all finalized it is so worth it as it always pushes me a little beyond my comfort zone and seeing my work represented on coins is pretty incredible!
How can you get your hands on one?
Well… you check your change. These are circulation coins and will be out and about paying for your coffees and left for tips! If you don’t want to go on the treasure hunt, then you CAN order them at the Royal Canadian Mint website. If you DO find it… make sure you send me a photo on instagram or tag me @clairevictoria.art
PAST COINS I HAVE DONE…
Coming UP: August 4, 5 and 6th in Comox BC
As you come into Filberg Park, I will be up on the left at booth number #5! Be sure to come and say hi!
NEW In The Shop
Many have asked so I have decided to do a limited run of 16” x 20” Archival Prints of Long Beach Break. You will see them up at Filberg and on my shop page, but only for a little while!
