This exhibition celebrates dogs in art
from the nineteenth century to the present with a focus on British and American
artists. All dog owners will attest to
the unquestioned bond they share with the dogs in their lives, whether
sporting, purebred, or beloved pet dogs.
To explore how dogs embody a broad spectrum of values and emotions, this
exhibition will examine works of art in which the dog takes center stage:
demonstrating the performance of hounds and sporting dogs working in the field;
showcasing specific characteristics of a breed as depicted in pure-bred
portraits; and highlighting pet portraits that portray the dog in its domestic
environment. The scope of the exhibition
will also celebrate service dogs, ranging from the innovative guide dog
services provided by The Seeing Eye® to the search and rescue dogs that
assisted at the 9/11 tragedy, to the heroic military dogs that serve members of
the armed forces.
More than 100 works will be on view
that capture the talent and diversity of canine artists, and also showcase the
many breeds that are recognized in America and England, ranging from sporting
hounds to pampered pooches. The
exhibition will include original oil paintings, works on paper, bronze
sculptures, decorative art, trophies, and canine accessories.