It was a busy spring when I agreed to create a unique design for a charity auction, execute the design and transport the piece to Nebraska. There were a few curve balls thrown in to make it interesting.
Paws on the Platte was a fund raiser for Paws-itive Partners, a no-kill animal shelter in North Platte, Nebraska. They are passionate pet lovers and pro spay/neuter. You love them already?
Close up
My job was to paint a three-foot-tall fiberglass dog in a way that someone would love him and bid to raise funds for the shelter’s programs. A few designs were aborted before deciding on an impressionist painter theme. Using the inspiration of works of Vincent Van Gogh and Claud Monet, I tried to reflect the agriculture lifestyle of Nebraska.
The artists’ works of The Haystacks, Tulip Fields, Wheat Field with Cypress, Siesta, Poppyfield, Water Lilies and even Van Gogh’s self-portrait were painted onto the dog statue. I named him Vin-Mo paying further homage to these artists.
My dog joined 24 litter mates to be paraded and promoted around area events and businesses. Finally, we were able to attend the auction. What a treat to see the imagination and work of the other artists! There were angel dogs, a blue-collar dog and an Elvis dog. There was a biker, mosaic, glittered, beach bound, and even a salute to Bob Ross dog. Well attended, the exciting auction raised more than $50,000 for the animals! WOW, that’s a lot of kibble!
Photographer Chris and painter Robin Rohwer each week share a painting or photograph that captured their interest. Their website is www.ChristopherRobinArts.com. All works are copyright protected.