The Rahr-West Art Museum in Manitowoc, WI is pleased to announce A View from the Periscope, a traveling art exhibition from the United States Naval History and Heritage Command Art Collections, at the Rahr-West Art Museum from June 14 through September 14, 2015.

For centuries men experimented with submersible vessels in hopes of finding ways other than ramming, boarding, or intense cannon fire to sink enemy warships. Drawn to its sleek yet hidden shape, artists have long tried to capture the mystery of the submarine and the adventurous men who risk underwater combat.

This exhibition, curated from the collection of the U.S. Navy, features artwork depicting naval submarines through the 20th century and the submariners who served aboard them. A talented group of artists is featured in this very rare naval exhibit.

Manitowoc, WI has a special connection to this artwork, as it was here that 28 submarines were built during World War 2. A View from the Periscope will be a major component of the 1st Annual SUBFEST, a city-wide celebration of Manitowoc’s unique sub-building heritage. SUBFEST is a partnership between the Rahr-West Art Museum, Wisconsin Maritime Museum, and Capitol Civic Centre to be held in downtown Manitowoc July 10-12, 2015.

The Navy Art Collection collects, documents, preserves and exhibits art that is significant to the history of the Navy for both the public and service personnel. This includes over 20,000 paintings, prints, drawings, and engravings consisting of naval ships, personnel, and actions from all eras of U.S. naval history.