STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK

 "Silent Predator" by Artist Craig Tinder

Now available in two exclusive formats: a 30"x20" Hardwood Framed Canvas Edition - Limited to Only 20 and an 18"x12" Canvas (Framed or Unframed) - Limited to Only 30. Each art piece includes an AUTHENTIC RELIC, Certificate of Authenticity, and is hand-signed by the Artist. Quantities are extremely limited—Once They're Sold Out, They're Gone!

This Fine Art Print by Artist Craig Tinder depicts the U.S. Naval Submarine, the U.S.S. Atule, during a war patrol in the Pacific theater in WWII.

The Story Behind the Print:

The USS Atule (SS-403), a Balao-class submarine, was commissioned by the U.S. Navy during the height of World War II in 1944. As part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, the Atule embarked on multiple war patrols across the Pacific theater, establishing itself as a significant threat to enemy shipping. During its wartime service, the Atule was credited with sinking five enemy vessels, totaling approximately 28,600 tons of Japanese shipping. These successful patrols underscored the crucial role of submarines in disrupting enemy supply lines and naval operations during the war, earning the Atule a reputation as a formidable force in the Pacific.

After the conclusion of World War II, the USS Atule underwent several significant modifications to adapt to the evolving needs of the U.S. Navy during the Cold War. This period saw a transition in the role of submarines, from direct engagement in wartime patrols to a broader strategic function in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and deterrence. The Atule played a part in these missions, reflecting the shift in naval priorities as tensions with the Soviet Union grew. Throughout its service, the Atule exemplified the adaptability of the Balao-class submarines, serving both in times of total war and the ensuing Cold War standoff.

Visit the Journal to read the full story!

Commissioned by Museums, Treasured by Collectors

This art piece is an officially licensed product of the U.S. Department of the Navy and is handmade by artist, Craig Tinder.

Available to ship worldwide!

ABOUT THE RELIC

This artifact originated from a wooden crew member's box that was used aboard the USS Atule. These boxes typically stored tools or spare parts and often times are the only physical relic remaining of the ship.

Tool Box - USS Atule. Pieces of this are used as the relic included in the "Silent Predator" limited edition prints

Note the commissioning date stamp - standard practice for many US Navy vessels during WWII

Inside of tool box

Artist, Craig Tinder, with USS Atule relic and limited edition canvas art "Silent Predator"

MATERIAL & DISPLAY

PREMIUM ALUMINUM

Our newest presentation format delivers exceptional color, contrast, and fine detail on a smooth gloss surface. The result has a luminous quality and clarity that is difficult to fully capture in photographs. Framed aluminum editions are finished in a solid black frame for a clean, contemporary presentation.

TRADITIONAL CANVAS

The original Aces In Action presentation features gallery-wrapped canvas, with framed editions presented in our traditional black floater frame. Canvas offers a classic, textured fine-art presentation and remains available on select Relic Artwork editions while inventory lasts.

AVAILABLE SIZES & FORMATS

  • 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; available framed or unframed
  • 30" × 20" (76.2 × 50.8 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed
  • 36" × 12" (91.4 × 30.5 cm) — Panoramic Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed on select artwork

READY TO HANG

Every Relic Artwork edition arrives ready to hang. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed. No additional framing or mounting is required before display.

ABOUT CRAIG TINDER

Craig Tinder is an artist and historical researcher whose work brings significant moments in military and aviation history to life. For more than 20 years, he has combined detailed research with traditional and digital illustration techniques to create historically accurate artwork for collectors, veterans, museums, and historical organizations.

Craig has been commissioned to create artwork, installations, and memorial projects for museums, military organizations, and historical institutions throughout the United States. His work is held in museum and private collections around the world, reflecting a career built around historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and preserving the stories behind the subjects he depicts.

Every Aces In Action artwork is created by Craig Tinder, making Aces In Action the official home of his historical artwork and collectibles.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING & CARE

SHIPPING

Each Relic Artwork edition is individually handcrafted and completed by Craig Tinder. From engraving and assembling the Artifact Dock to preparing the relic, framing the artwork when selected, and completing the final inspection and packaging, every piece is finished specifically for its collector. Please allow additional time for this hands-on process before your artwork ships.

Gift wrapping is available for Relic Artwork, making it ready for presentation upon arrival.

DISPLAY & CARE

All Relic Artwork arrives ready to display. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed.

Premium Relic Artwork editions are designed for long-term display. Keep artwork away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth and avoid household cleaners or abrasive materials on the artwork, frame, relic, or Artifact Dock.

THE RELIC ARTWORK EXPERIENCE

Authentic History

Each edition incorporates an authentic historical relic, presented on a custom laser-engraved Artifact Dock with details connecting the artifact to its history.

Handmade by Craig Tinder

Every Relic Artwork edition is assembled in Craig's studio, where it is signed, numbered, crafted, inspected, and prepared for its collector.

Made for Collectors

From the Certificate of Authenticity to the finished presentation, each detail is designed to create a collectible that preserves a tangible connection to history.