British artist Justine Osborne paints contemporary dog art using traditional oil on canvas techniques. Taking inspiration from photographs and sketches drawn from life, she captures striking, original images of our canine companions. Merry Dogs caught up with Justine at her Cotswold studio, where we asked her about her dogs, her work and her inspiration as an artist.
What dogs do you own/own you, and what is their favourite pastime?
“I have two basset hounds, Minnie & Morris. I have to say reluctantly that their favourite pastime would be hoovering up crumbs on the streets during our walks. Morris’s second would be on cat watch in the garden, and Minnie I hope would say snoozing on my lap – even though she is far too big I’m always trying to accommodate and help her stay on!”
What is it about dogs that inspires you to paint them?
“I am attracted to the honesty and integrity dogs have, and the challenge of getting across their personalities in paintings. It is very special to paint dogs that are so loved and adored, they are very unassuming subjects, just happy being. As an artist, dogs allow for infinite colours, textures, unusual poses, making them an exciting subject.”
What’s the first dog you ever drew/painted?
“My girl Minnie, nearly 10 years ago now. She deserves another painting, to capture her now-white muzzle!”
What’s the most interesting dog you’ve painted?
“My most interesting commission was a collection of 7 dogs in Miami, past and present. 7 different paintings, all different sizes, the challenge to get all the colours and shapes working well together. Its very difficult to have a favourite dog I’ve painted, rare breeds like the Japanese Tosa are very interesting to do, but then equally the real one-off cross breeds. I like the story behind each dog, the insights owners give into their characters.”
How do you see your dog art developing in the future?
“I’m hoping to work on some large scale exhibition pieces, and to just keep on being lucky enough to paint what I love for a living!”
Big wufs to Justine for taking the time to talk to us today!
You can see more of Justine’s work, and commission a pet portrait, at www.paintmydog.co.uk
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