Loopy, a Standard Poodle, begs to be walked.

Loopy, a Standard Poodle, is ready for her walk.

Loopy, a Standard Poodle, lovingly stares at her owner as if to say, “What are you waiting for? I even brought you the leash!”

Dogs have a way of communicating with us don't they?

Soft pleading eyes, the clicking of paws on ceramic floors, the prancing to and fro all give an indication of their wishes.

(This post was first published in 2018).

And Loopy? Well, she just wants a walk. Right now, please?

This is an acrylic painting on reclaimed cedar wood. Loopy is donated art work for a Food Truck Fundraiser.

Recently, a Civics student from Ottawa Technical High School asked if I could contribute art for their fundraiser “to raise awareness while also petitioning to raise the sentencing for animal abuse.” All proceeds go to Ottawa Dog Rescue.

Of course, I am pleased to help this worthy cause. The Food Truck Fundraiser is the Civics class social action project for the course.

Painting on reclaimed wood.

This is the first dog I paint on a smaller piece of wood measuring 4 ½ “ by 12”. The wood is varnished to a glossy finish.

I can get lost for hours in the paintings that I work on and I have a special fondness for painting animals. Last summer, I painted Chico, my Havanese, and I have this as a memorial portrait now that he is no longer with us.

In my art room, more reclaimed wood pieces wait to be painted.

The old boards are well suited for animal portraits. The greys and beiges and browns of the old wood and the natural grain provide ideal initial colours for most pet portraits.

However, I need lots of variety in my creative life so I painted a mermaid, (sold).

Update: I have since painted more dogs on reclaimed boards. Jake and Stout are with their new owners. In addition, I have painted and collaged a housewarming gift on discarded deck board as well as this flower fairy (still available).  Finally, this Protectress of vulnerable creatures is also still available.

I can be contacted here if you have any questions or if you wish to commission a portrait of your own.