Friday, August 13, 2010

Martin Greyhound


Martin was one of 28 dogs seized in a high profile hoarding case in Fort Worth, TX. Sadly, Martin and three other greyhounds didn't survive. He did get to know love, kindness, good food and comfort in his short time with his foster family.

This painting is dedicated to everyone involved with the rescue, care, fostering, and financial support of these dogs. I chose Martin to represent the 28, because there was something very special about him... he touched so many people's lives with his extraordinary beauty and sweetness. Thank you to his foster mother for allowing me to use his photo.

I sketched him on the canvas with his ears as they were in the photo. So sweet, but also troubled...


I decided to change his ears and perked them up a little. I want this painting to represent the love and hope for the future that these abused dogs found, and I think these ears help to portray that...


Martin is now ready for color! Stay tuned...
Painting specs: 11 x 14 inches, acrylic on Ampersand Gessoboard.

If you haven't heard about this case and want to learn more, you can find info here, but be prepared, there are graphic photos.

May all dogs be loved...

15 comments:

NAK and The Residents of The Khottage Now With KhattleDog! said...

What an incredible tribute -

The story of these poor canines is so disturbing -

Coincidentally, this weekend's tranport run will be in honour of the four that didn't make it (part of a Paw It FURward with two other dedications) -

Thanks for applying your awesome talents AGAIN!

Sherry Blue Sky said...

Yes, may all dogs be loved. Such a sweet face he has.

Sarah Sullivan said...

Awww hon that is wonderful...bittersweet the this sweet pooch didn't survive..but I so love what you have done here!! Beautiful hon! Hugs, Sarah

gtyyup said...

We all need a good cry in the afternoon...you've done it. This is really going to be a special painting. Hugs~

houndstooth said...

I agree, there was something really special about Martin! Holly let me use some of his pictures for the blog, too, and I just love his eyes. I was as disappointed when he passed away as if he'd been my own dog for some reason. I can't wait to see how the portrait turns out!

Barbara said...

Honestly, I don't want to know the story, because my heart has been broken so much this week because so many dogs have been badly treated by humans.

However, your painting is coming along nicely and I can't wait to see the tribute.

Unknown said...

Kathleen, that's beautiful :)
I'm sorry to hear about Martin and all the abuse they've gone through.

Chris Wolfgang said...

Greyhounds are such lovely creatures. So elegant. I'm glad you're letting him be expressed as he should have lived.

Dean Grey said...

Kathleen!

You are a sweetheart.

Martin looks kind of apprehensive in that picture. Trusting yet still apprehensive. I don't blame him.

Clearly he was a gentle, beautiful dog that you captured so well in your drawing. I like both the before (with the ears down) and the after (with the ears up).

It will be magnificent. I just know it!

-Dean

Emma Rose said...

Thank you. What a thoughtful and caring thing to do. He was beautiful.

Yes, may all dogs be loved.
This should be our new motto throughout blogland. I will put it on my page if that's ok with you.

Kisses,
Emma Rose

Anonymous said...

Greyhounds are such sad looking dogs. Their eyes show so much pain. I love dogs and i think your paintings really show your love for dogs as well :)

Alessandra said...

You're right, Martin had something special. I love your painting of his picture, and I think the ears will leave a positive feeling to all who will see it. I love dogs too, maybe more than humans (at least some humans..)
Keep up the good work

Lisa said...

He is beautiful. Glad he is safe.
Your art is stunning. Loved the story also nice to see him in your Art.

Life With Dogs said...

I was thrilled to see that you were doing this. It's heartening to see a thing of beauty spring from tragedy...

Here I Am Carrie said...

His face holds that expression of please love me. It is sooo sad that they are not all properly loved when they give so much back in return. Your painting will give memory to his expression forever.