Dogs vs. Pets

The dogs that I paint purely for my own enjoyment have a quality that's difficult to achieve when doing dogs-or other animals-for other people.  With commissions I tend to tighten up.  I want the dog to look like their pet.  I have certain colors that I've been asked to incorporate.  There is a size limitation.  All of the sudden it becomes a challenge to be spontaneous.  In the end I have a painting that the client is very happy with and that is, with commissions, the desired result.  The above dogs were painted pretty quickly and done right after a few pet portraits.  Needing to prove to myself again that I could do this stress-free and with some abandon, I am pretty happy with the way they turned out.

'Sadie'

2012 commission

This dog summers in Great Cranberry island, Maine

'Loving a Sheba...it's Complicated'

acrylic on wood
11"x14"

I've lived with my sheba inu, Yoko, for about five years now.  Twice, in the early days, I wanted to return her to the rescue organization that I got her from.  Why?  I think it was simply her shebaness.  I was somewhat familiar with the breed from what I read online but it was the beauty of this dog that was the driving force.  They have been described as aloof, independent, hard to train, non-affectionate, run-aways, cat-like, very clean--i.e. they lick their butts a lot.  I got her anyway.

Our relationship has needed time to grow.  The key to a happy and loving life with a sheba inu is acceptance.  I accept her.  I don't fight the characteristics of her breed that she can do nothing about.  She may not be affectionate but she is loyal.  She has her place in this family.  And I can say, finally, that I have no regrets.