While Mr. Forager & I are on the road, making our way to California, we’re rerunning Artsy Forager’s most popular posts. This post originally published on November 1, 2011. Enjoy!
PS- since writing this post, Clair Hartmann has opened a wonderful little gallery in Wilmington, NC, Sun Gallery & Gifts. Please make a visit if you’re in the area!
OK, yes I know “pet art” has been done to death. It seems like every artist and their brother is doing it. But I submit to you, dear Artsies, that Wilmington, NC artist Clair Hartmann does doggy art in a wonderfully whimsical and heartfelt, yet not at all cheesy way.
Whether she is doing straight-on portraits against graphic fabric backgrounds, like the one above or masterpiece inspired depictions as in the ones below, Clair always captures her subjects inherent personality and unique expressions.
There is a wonderfully graphic and modern quality to Clair’s animal work, which to me, elevate them beyond kitsch. Her paintings of her own Jack Russell Terrier, Chumley, are among my favorites. She perfectly captures moments of rare moments quiet rest and inner reflection ( who hasn’t wondered what their dog was thinking?! ), filled with tenderness and love for her subject.
Clair has a new exhibition now open in Wilmington at the WHQR Gallery Space– Faithful: A Series of Dog Paintings will be on display through January 13, 2012. You can also visit her website to see more of her work and visit her Etsy shop to purchase!
Featured image is Wonky Bumbershoots by Clair Hartmann. All images via the artist’s website and Etsy shop.
Comments
7 responses to “Puppy Love: Clair Hartmann”
OMD (og)! Clair is a master -or is it “mistress” of doggie beauty & infinite bewitching powers! Glad you found her – & shared. I was already a devotee.
Thanks for stopping by, L&D! I’ve been a fan of Clair’s work for quite some time, was lucky enough to work with her back in my gallery/art consultant days in Florida. I’ve loved seeing her really blossom and find her niche!
Cheers!
Lesley
Great find! Animal art has been overdone, yes, but finding the rare unique artists who add a unique spin to the animal art are priceless. Love Hartmann’s work! Thank you for sharing 🙂
Glad you liked Clair’s work, Teia! And thanks for posting it on StumbleUpon. 🙂
Cheers!
Lesley
I love these! I’m a sucker for cute dogs, and this artwork is extremely well done! So inspirational!
Glad you like Clair’s work, Emma! She really captures the spirit and personality of each of these pups, doesn’t she?
Definitely! Made me take a good long look at my two puppies and realize that I’ll just HAVE to draw them someday.