In my abstract portrayal of the Welsh Springer Spaniel, or 'Welshie,' my vision is to honor the breed's rich heritage, unique physical attributes, and exuberant personality while challenging the traditional expectations of canine art. This work aims to encapsulate a single, dynamic moment of action - a Welshie's attempt to catch a bird - expressed through a bold blend of heavy texture, color, and pop art aesthetics.
By applying heavy textures of paint and layers of color, I seek to inject a sense of motion into the canvas, capturing the Welshie's energy and drive as a bird dog. The layers build up to form a graphic shape around the dog, abstractly encapsulating the intensity of the chase and the Welshie's innate versatility in the field.
The use of pop art aesthetics serves two key purposes in this work. Firstly, it draws attention to the exhilarating moment of the chase, underscoring the joy and spirit of the breed in action. Secondly, the pop art style is a deliberate divergence from the sophistication often associated with Welshies, adding an element of surprise and playfulness to the painting. This style choice encapsulates the breed's happy disposition and the breed's dual nature - the 'handy size' sporting dog and the dashing good-looking companion.
Through this abstract expression, I strive to bring forward the Welshie's distinctive attributes - the uniquely tapered head and the eye-catching coat of bold red and white patterns - in a way that is both contemporary and impactful. 24” x 24” acrylic on wall board.
Available on Saatchi