Star - Belgian Shepherd - Commissioned Dog Portrait

I'm about to begin a new dog portrait, this time of a beautiful Belgian Shepherd named Star.

Star is no longer with us - she passed away June 23rd, 2011, and is deeply missed by her owner Mel. She'll be commemorated with a small portrait on the lid of a beautifully crafted wood box in which her ashes are preserved. A thoughtful gift idea from Chelsey, Mel's partner, for their anniversary. It's a simple, elegant and very meaningful gift - very touching. 

Until I'm ready to begin the painting, Star's ashes are resting on my studio's mantel beside a picture of my beloved black pug Mink. I have a soft spot for black dogs, not just because of Mink, but because they are usually the last ones picked from a litter. There is a disproportionate number of black dogs in shelters awaiting adoption. Sadly, they often end up being euthanized simply because of their colour. There is a stigma associated with black dogs and cats that comes with ignorance and ridiculous superstitions. 

When Star came into Mel's life nine years ago, he was still just a boy. She was an unwanted or lost stray. She quickly bonded with Mel and became his shadow, his most ardent protector and bodyguard. She would do anything to make sure no one messed with him in any way. An eleven-year-old boy with a dog weighing 110 pounds standing five feet tall... Can you imagine. Star was fearless except for one thing: thunder storms. She'd run off to the bathtub where she would lay until the storm would pass.

Star loved playing frisbee, canned dog food, chewing on bones and enjoyed people food. Her chain collar was her accessory of choice. She found winter time and the accompanying snow particularly exciting. She also enjoyed the beach, but for some reason hated swimming. Not drawn to other dogs, she would much prefer hanging out with humans. But above everything else, Mel came first.

Follow me on the portrait journey of this big beautiful girl.