Alasdair McDonnell in the studio, 2010
Why dogs?
Mans’ first relationship with animals was with dogs. Dogs were there when Hannibal crossed the Alps. Real people keep dogs. 99 44/100 % of dog owners have greater success in life, etc. Seriously there is a long tradition in art in most of the mediums of using dogs as subject matter. Consider the portraits of Rembrandt and Vermeer, Velasquezs' famous portrait of the Spanish Royal family, Sir Joshua Reynolds and George Stubbs, Lucian Freud, the list is substantial. Personally what intrigues me is that fascinating synthesis, the way the dog reflects the characteristics of the owner, and all the ways including genetically that man has manipulated dogs.
These drawings in gouache are intended to capture the fascination of dogs, but also to celebrate their relationship with man, because mostly they are lovely creatures guaranteed to provide unconditional love.
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They are the best pets. At home I have 2 dogs Duke and Celina and truth that give happiness to the home. They are much like the paintings of the picture.
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