The Gutter Dog Project

Hello Again!

2011-05-29T15:37:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been over one year since I posted the artwork featuring the first "tripod" gutter dog from South Suburban Humane Society- SPRING.

She's doing great thanks to her family.

Here's a few pictures and thoughts from the mind of SPRING...

HI!

Mom has started sketching a picture of me and she is sending you the rough first sketch (and it's really rough!). It still has a ways to go. She is kind of rusty. I told her to quit aggravating herself because she has a camera anyways, but she insists that she is going to paint me someday.

Anyways, I am doing rather fine. I love running around my community and going to the woods with Mom and Dad. Of course, they can't let me off my leash in case I see another dog. I still have Post-Tramatic Stress from what happened to me where I was at before, and I can't seem to get over it. That's ok. She promised she won't ever let me get hurt again.

Dad takes me for a ride in the car almost every day. I just get so excited when he puts his jacket on. But sometimes, he is just going to work when he puts his jacket on, and I get all disappointed. But I get over it eventually.

My sister, The Cat, drives me nuts sometimes. She likes to tease me through the glass door when she knows that I can't get her. But when she comes out and sees me , she just runs because she knows that I am The Boss in the house now. She'll just have to get used to it.

Anyways, take care, you guys.

Love,

Spring

Spring's owner is an artist too, so I can't wait to see her painting when it's done!

Surely the SSHS crew will enjoy seeing what you've been up too...

Gutter dog no more!!!!

Thanks Spring.

Love, Margie

Busy as the bees...

2011-05-22T10:12:00.000-07:00

So, finally! Here's something new. My dog "Angus" served up his mug for a graphite drawing demo that I used for an Art class that kept me super busy teaching this Spring!

"Angus"

Graphite Drawing

17" x 23"

2011

Better late than never: The 2011 GIRL DOGS!

2011-02-09T13:31:00.000-08:00

Due to a series of personal events- the paintings that I wished to have ready of the girl dogs

for the 2010 holiday season are FINALLY ready for Valentine's Day!

BOMBSHELL BULLIES RESCUE

Vernon Hills, IL

Burlesque

Oil on Canvas

24" x 24"

"Burlesque" to the best of my knowledge is still searching for her forever home. I really loved the photos that I worked from to create this image of her, and decided to include a slender blue strand that represents the unravelling of the animal control lead around her neck and the link to her past as an abused over-bred mother dog.

ILLIANA BULL TERRIER FANCIERS

Wilmington, IL

Athena

Oil on Canvas

24" x 24"

"Athena" was dumped off when she was full term pregnant with nine puppies. She now has a great forever home with a loving new owner. To show this new connection, a small thread encircles around "Athena" indicating that she too, has a past, and a future.

THANK YOU TO THE RESCUES FOR ALL THEY DO!

My sincere apologies in the delay to the rescues and readers.

A little life goes a long way- Rest in Peace Mr. Mason...

2011-01-25T15:59:00.000-08:00

It is with the heaviest of hearts that brings my first posting of the new year.

The fabulous Mr. Mason who lived his little life in a big way passed away Saturday January 22nd.

Paralyzed as a puppy in Puerto Rico, Mason made his way through the arms of angels to Illinois, and has been my favorite neighbor dog for many years. He inspired everyone he met to just be...and be happy.

God Speed Mr. Mason, I know you are running as fast as you can-

where ever you are.

"Mason"

We will all miss you...

Margie & your fellow Gutter Dogs

Meeting the Fabulous Fifty!

2010-12-08T04:50:00.000-08:00

On Friday December 3rd, I went up to Homewood IL to set up some of my artwork in a display window, and brought a very special painting with me, for a very special reason.

The painting of Fifty came with to be delivered to the real Fifty,

and his owner Kelly- it just happened to be her birthday that day.

Fifty

oil on canvas

30" x 40"

ONE TAIL AT A TIME

Chicago, IL

In this painting of Fifty I chose to focus on poise, determination, grace, & dignity in the face of disfigurement. And despite having all the odds stacked against you, ONE person and ONE moment can make all the difference in your life.

I think that pretty much sums up the mission of Fifty's owner Kelly, and the rescue group she works with, ONE TAIL AT A TIME.

Kelly, Fifty, & Me

The first thing I noticed about Fifty was how HAPPY he was!

Not the fact that he was missing two legs, not that he was a Pit Bull,

nothing else but how HAPPY he was.

He truly has a way of getting you to smile...

Thanks to the generosity of many & ONE TAIL AT A TIME Fifty is getting a prosthetic leg to help him get around a little easier. You can read about him on his blog by clicking here!

If you are interested in donating, or wish inquire about the artwork featuring Fifty,

please visit: www.onetail.org

Good luck to One Tail at a Time in their fundraising efforts!

Up Next....the girl dogs will rule the blog!

Almost doesn't count...but here's a sneek peek!

2010-11-30T15:44:00.001-08:00

It's the holiday season right? So here's a peek at the paintings.

This is how they looked before Thanksgiving resting on the easel.

I have since added more highlights, colors, ect....

They will be completed, ready for the rescues this week.

"Fifty"

"Athena"

"Burlesque"

Not sure just how the rescues all have decided to use the paintings for funding,

but surely it will be great...

Check back in a few days for the big reveal!

Finally, an update!

2010-11-11T15:14:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been one long busy month!

The paintings are nearly complete, and I am hoping to maybe have them ready for the rescues by Thanksgiving...I will post new images of them soon.

But in the meantime, I have been showing my own artwork throughout the late summer & autumn season, with a very special show coming up at the

Monkey Mind Art Studio & Gallery

in historic downtown Frankfort IL.

Please stop by and see the exhibit if you are in the area!

By the way, there is one AWESOME pet store/doggie barkery

called Chew on This right around the block, and they will be open the night of my exhibit's opening, not to mention all the other shops & restaurants!

Down to Earth

Oil Paintings, Graphite Drawing, & Ceramic Sculptures

Margie Glass-Sula

Meet the Artist: November 19, 5 - 8PM

The exhibit runs thru December 22, 2010

Ripple oil on canvas, 48" x 48"

For more info about the show, gallery hours, directions, and other events visit:

The Monkey Mind Art Studio & Gallery.

Gutter Dog Project: PAINTING in Progress...

2010-10-08T07:39:00.000-07:00

Now that I have had time to look over photos, know the dogs stories & even correspond a bit with the rescuers, & two of the great adoptive owners, here's the first look at the progress of the art works. Normally, I start with a complete drawing, then begin to pick through and see what size canvas I can put together for the finished works, and then the painting process begins!

ATHENA

Athena (tinted graphite sketch) 18" x 24"

ILLIANA BULL TERRIER FANCIERS

Athena, (base layer w/ white glaze), 24" x 24"

Here is the status of Athena's painting. This is what I consider the base, or under-painting stage in a layering process of oil painting that I do, some call it "glazing". It is basically a value painting with a layer of transparent white oil glaze over it. (So no, there's nothing wrong with your eyes)!

The next step will be to start adding all the tints, tones, & colors in transparent layers or "glazes" as well to make Athena really glow!

BURLESQUE

Burlesque, (tinted graphite sketch) 24" x 18"

Burlesque, (base layer) 24" x 24"

BOMBSHELL BULLIES RESCUE

Here's is Burlesque's initial base, without the white glaze added yet.

I love this pose! It is quite regal, & was from one of her photos, I couldn't resist it.

By the way "Burlesque" still needs a forever home! Click on Bombshell's link to inquire about her.

FIFTY

Fifty, (base layer) 30" x 36"

ONE TAIL AT A TIME

And then there's Fifty...

I am usually a very methodical, calculated, or plan of action type of artist.

Basically, I usually always sketch or complete a drawing before I begin a painting. I guess it's like having a reference to guide you. On occasion, I just can paint. Doesn't happen often but when I sat down to draw Fifty, I found myself putting a canvas together instead.

And well, the next day I painted!

I think it is perhaps due to the fact that I usually like to work slightly more abstract,

and let's face it...

Fifty is really quite an abstract dog!

For some reason, my dog Ethel couldn't resist getting in on the photo session.

I am also in the midst of revamping my personal website, so give it a look!

Thanks for visiting!

2011 Gutter Dogs: meet "FIFTY" & One Tail At A Time

2010-09-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

I must say that I first encountered this particular dog in an online video meeting another amputee pit bull named Trio. Long story short, I was SUPER excited when his picture popped open in my e-mail as a 2011 Gutter Dog submission!

Meet FIFTY.

Living the good life on all TWO legs.

Here's what Fifty's owner shared with me about their lives:

"I recently rescued a two legged pitty boy named Fifty who was shot twice, once in his front right leg and once in his back right leg by a Chicago cop because he hopped a fence to play w/ a smaller dog. He has nothing left in front and his back leg was amputated at the knee. Despite this tragedy, Fifty could not be a happier 4 year old boy. He loves to hang out w/ his best friends Izzy and Red, go for rides in his Radio Flyer, and hop around his yard. He was in a foster home for 8 months because no one wanted a special needs dog, but luckily I found him. I work at Integrative Pet Care, a rehab facility for dogs, so I can take him in for his treatments any day of the week. People say he's a lucky boy, but I'm the lucky one to have him.
Fifty is an inspiration to so many people. With him I intend to start a humane education program to educate people about the pitbull breed and how everything that's been said about them is not the case. Fifty was shot twice by a human, lost his family, was stuck in foster for many months, yet he still loves people and is super dog friendly. He never held a grudge. I wish I could be that strong..."

One Tail At A Time has been working to effectively & permanently place dogs in homes in Chicago, IL since 2007. This all volunteer rescue focuses on alleviating pet overpopulation & saving dogs that are at a particularly high risk for euthanasia. Their philosophy includes the belief that the actions & good will of just one person can & do make a difference.

I suppose I share their "one can make a difference" philosophy -after all I am just one artist doing what I can, how about you?

"Fifty's" owner is a board member with One Tail, and types an awesome blog about the adventures of Fifty in her few spare minutes, click here to check it out. Believe me it's worth the click!

The painting will go to One Tail At A Time to help raise more funds!

This is his owner's favorite picture to date.

Surely the one I will work from...

Gutter Dog Spotlight Artist: ELLEN CURLEY

2010-09-10T14:39:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to feature other artists work that I feel touches a chord either in content or concept. Though not all artists just paint dogs or things related to them, sometimes they are deeply inspired by something dog-oriented...

So, finally here is the first:

Ellen Curley

I first encountered Ellen Curley's works some years ago in a painting studio and I guess I can say that I never have forgotten it. Her works grab your attention with their movement and scale, then captivate you with their color and content- leaving you to sort out your emotions about what you are viewing. Ellen holds a Master of Arts in visual arts and has nearly completed her masters in art history as well.

Though she does not always focus on animals in her artwork, Ellen is a true lover of all creatures. She has rescued & adopted numerous animals- from dogs to horses to helping any form of wildlife she encounters.

I am so happy she agreed to let me present these three particular works.

Here is what she had to say about each when I asked...

Play

48" x 60"

Oil on Panel

"Play is about the indicernable tangle that dogs get into when they play. The background and the foreground melt and blend together along with appendages and what-not. Space and time blur. I picked primary and secondary colors to make it childlike and playful..."

Prey and Predator

48" x 60"

Oil on Panel

"Prey and Predator is contrary to play of course. The actions are similar and so is the intent but, it's gone to the far extreme. It's also very complex. It's about the horror of a dog fight, and that mindless, instinctual pack mentally they have. When one goes down they all tend to gang up and enjoy it. It's also about my own horror and inability to accept the victimization and antagonism that's so much a part of life as well as the food chain. I made it Cubist, fractured, demonic and a whirlwind of dust, fur and fire. I like this one but, I don't like it. It's still disturbing to me when I look at it..."

Moving On

60" x 36"

Oil on Panel

"Moving On is about my first two dogs Ginger and Sandy. We were at a beach in California. They had had a long day of running on the beach and were resting- staring out at the ocean. I painted it from a picture I took that day, long after they had died. I wanted to make it reflective and give it a double sided, cool and warm effect- like a spiritual crossing over kind of feel that you would get from moon rise and sunset at the same time on opposing sides."

I suppose everyone who has ever had dogs play, fight, and move on can relate easily to these three artworks. For me, they are unspoken truths about life with dogs: happy, fearful, sad...

all captured in vibrant, emotional visuals.

The featured artworks of Ellen Curley are available for purchase.

Interested parties may contact me for more information!

thegutterdogproject@gmail.com

Thanks Ellen!

2011 Gutter Dogs: meet "Burlesque" & Bombshell Bullies Pit Bull Rescue

2010-09-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

I first stumbled across Bombshell Bullies Pit Bull Rescue last year at a day long hot rod car event. There was this Pit bull Rescue booth set up among all the cars & stuff. They were there all day long on a very cold October day to spread their message and help dogs. Well, unfortunate for me I was unable to make my way back through the sea of people, hot rods, and car parts to talk to them! Needless to say their efforts there that day made a big impression on me...

Meet Burlesque

Yet another unwanted mother.

After living in a crate as a puppy producing machine for 3 years straight, this poor pit bull terrier was dumped off at a shelter to be put to sleep. Apparently someone saw something more in her-past her crudely cropped ears and weathered tummy.

They obviously looked in her eyes.

Taken in by Bombshell Bullies Pit Bull Rescue in Vernon Hills, IL Burlesque is currently in foster care & looking for a forever home. They describe her as a super affectionate with people despite her abused and over-bred past.

Bombshell Bullies's mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, & re-home abused and abandoned Pit Bull Terrier type breeds, and use their efforts to educate and make aware the reality of animal cruelty, neglect, and overpopulation.

By rescuing dogs like Burlesque Bombshell is reducing the number of animals that will senselessly be destroyed each and everyday, never knowing a decent life.

Their website is being re-vamped, but you can link up with them through petfinder.

Or find them on Facebook!

Thanks Bombshells!

2011 Gutter Dogs: meet "Athena" & Illiana Bull Terrier Fanciers

2010-09-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

If you have ever met an English Bull Terrier you never forget it.

They are truly a unique breed, but yet not immune to animal cruelty & neglect.

After all the term gutter dog actually describes one originally.

Having had my life graced with a few of these dogs, meet Athena...

A very pregnant bull terrier that was dumped off at a South Bend Indiana Animal shelter last year. She delivered a big litter of mixed breed puppies the very night that her guardian angels from Illiana Bull Terrier Fancier's rescued her from that shelter.

Apparently she felt safe and sound enough to do so.

Perhaps she knew she was getting a new life, for herself, and her puppies.

She was renamed "Athena" after the greek goddess, and from the only bit of mythology I can muster relates to being a protectress, who is often referred to as "the bright-eyed" of the three virgin greek goddesses. With the help of the Bull Terrier Club of America, Illiana Bull Terrier Fanciers was able to find their Athena a wonderful home.

This is her owner's favorite picture of her on the steps.

Athena lives with another very special dog-

here's what her new owner had to say about getting settled in with everyone:

"The other dog is my roommate's Guide Dog, Driver (my friend is blind) and they get along great. Athena thinks she's Driver's dog and follows him everywhere. The play together a lot, too, and wreck the house doing so. I'm a school teacher, so she's been around kids a lot and likes them very much. She was a big hit when I brought her to school (elementary school-aged children) and all the neighbors know her. We're still helping her learn how to chew on a rawhide and play with toys, but she does have stuffed toys she likes to cuddle with and a huge body-pillow my roommate gave her. She still doesn't like the leash, much, but we're working almost every day on it. She's mastered 'sit' and will come when called, but 'stay' still escapes her...."

By the way, Illiana Bull Terriers made sure that all her pups found fine homes too. They will use the artwork I create of Athena to raise funds to help another bull terrier in trouble.

For more info about Illiana Bull Terrier Fanciers & a few more pictures of a very expectant Athena, click their name to visit their website!

If you know of a Bull Terrier in need please contact: Illiana or the Bull Terrier Club of America

Thanks for caring.

Savoring the summer, and a new internet connection...

2010-07-12T12:35:00.000-07:00

Finally, an updated Gutter Dog blog thanks to a new internet connection!

Hope everyone is enjoying the summer just as much as my rescue dog "Angus".

This gorgeous photo of him has recently been entered in the Pit Bull Rescue Central's 2011 "Happy Endings" photo calendar featuring rescued pit bull terriers. Hopefully he will be chosen, but if not their calendars are always great and full of fabulous dogs and info.

Visit their website and check out all things that this virtual rescue has to offer, and even help with.

Coming soon:

I will be featuring artworks by other artists who have the ability to reveal something compelling about their own experience with canine/rescues through their work.

Entries now being accepted for 2011 Gutter Dogs...

2010-05-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

The Gutter Dog Project's paintings have brought a total of about $2,000!!!

Each rescue/shelter that submitted a dog and sold an artwork featuring it this year has made this project a success...but there are still dogs, rescues, and shelters in need.

The Gutter Dog Project 2010 Fine art Images.

Do you know of a Gutter Dog?

Do you know of a canine (bully-breed) rescue or shelter that would benefit from receiving a Gutter Dog fine artwork?

Then please send in their story and pictures!

How to Submit an Entry:

E-mail submissions accepted at this time.

If further correspondence is necessary, I will e-mail you back or telephone you.

Please Include:

Rescue name & all contact info.

Rescued Dog’s story
Dog’s name, breed, age, & current status.
Why this dog?
What makes this one standout?
Special need of dog or rescue, volunteers?

E-Mail Submissions to:

thegutterdogproject@gmail.com

I will be accepting submissions until August 31, 2010.

Three Rescues & dogs will be chosen.

I will forward rules/policy to those who submit & request the info.

The selections will be made by September 31, 2010.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

A home for Spring!

2010-05-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

Last week I got a set of wonderful messages about "Spring" from Jeff Stevenson, who introduced me to her case and SSHS. These notes where bursting with good news, coincidences, and written with love.

"Spring" was adopted by a great couple who had no idea that she had a fund established in her honor to educate, prevent, and combat animal abuse by South Suburban Humane Society known as "The "Promise of Spring Fund". Nor where they aware that she had featured at SSHS's 2010 Spotlight Humane, and had her likeness created in an artwork until their daughter happened across this blog online.

I love pleasant surprises, and they just kept coming, especially when I read their description of their new dog as their "precious little Spring..." and sent these photos of her enjoying a big comfy couch.

Spring enjoying the whole couch!

Here's a snippet taken from one of their messages that was forwarded to me:

"...She is doing so great at our home. She can still fly like a rabbit when she is well rested. And, so lovable and sweet to everyone she meets. Except, of course, she does not much like other dogs, as can be expected.

She has brought so much joy back into our home, after we had to put down our Golden last year (13 yrs. old).

I just wanted to tell you how lucky we feel to have her in our home.

She will always be loved and never hurt again."

The other wonderful coincidence for me was finding out the fact that "Spring's" new mom is an artist. She used to hold a residency at Union Street Gallery in Chicago Heights, where she painted. I now have an artist's membership at this same Gallery.

So happy for Spring and her new family.

It's great to see a very special dog go to such a great home.

THANK YOU to everyone who helped "Spring" get to this couch.

Submissions for the 2011 Gutter Dog Project being accepted!

Click here for information on how to submit a dog for a portrait...

SOLD: "Spring" to be installed at Shelter!

2010-04-26T16:34:00.000-07:00

On Friday I got caught in the rain, and had the best evening.

I attended Spotlight Humane.

Being the first time attending the event, the feeling that I was among friends instantly filled me.

As I watched a wonderful tribute to pet adoptions at South Suburban Humane Society, I was filled with anticipation waiting to see one particular dog. The only one there on all three legs, with a fund established in her name to combat animal cruelty. The one which I had spent countless hours thinking about, wondering how she was recovering, and creating a very special painting of for this particular evening. The Facilities Director at SSHS was kind enough to bring me back behind the stage where I got to meet "Spring" before the evening's highlights started.

Spring is a courageous happy dog who is still learning how to live the good life on all three's.

Meeting "Spring" at Spotlight Humane

Though this was the moment I had anticipated, the

night just kept getting better. Just before I left the event I was informed that the painting of "Spring" had just sold for $1,000 and will be installed at South Suburban Humane Society's Chicago Heights shelter to promote "The Promise of Spring Fund" established to educate and prevent animal cruelty in the area.

(Image from Spotlight Humane)

The painting was purchased by Trio Animal Founda tion founder Sue Naiden. Her foundation works to pay the medical bills of homeless pets. Trio Animal Foundation is named after Sue Naiden's own dog "Trio" who also is a victim of abuse and cruelty that resulted in the loss of a leg. To learn more about "Trio" and Trio Animal Foundation click here to visit their website.

I am truly honored.

THANK YOU.

The Promise of Spring: A Fund for South Suburban Humane Society

2010-04-15T15:49:00.000-07:00

Recently I received an update from SSHS supporter and Artist Jeff Stevenson, who originally asked me to create a painting for Spotlight Humane. I thought I would post it in it's entirety due to the fact that he tells Spring's story, gives details of a new fund created in her honor that you can donate too, and how to bid on the painting NOW!

Detail from Spring, for SSHS 2010 Spotlight Humane.

Here is the update by J. Stevenson:

The Promise of Spring Fund for SSHS

The South Suburban Humane Society has an abuse intervention, prevention and education fund that was inspired by a dog named Spring. The story of her past is disturbing, as many abuse cases are but with your support SSHS can continue to turn things around for animals like Spring.

She is currently in a loving foster home and her future is looking bright.

Spring is also having her portrait painted!

Here is her story:

On Saturday, March 6th, Investigators Miller and Crose received a tip that pit bulls were being neglected in a house in Chicago Heights. Upon arriving at the scene, the investigators found 2 pit bulls in the yard, chained with no food or water and in deplorable health. Other dogs could be heard inside the house but no one answered the door. Investigator Miller contacted Detective Larry Draus with the Cook County Sheriff’s Department. Draus obtained a search warrant and on Friday, March 12th, the search warrant was executed with our staff present.

Inside the house were drugs, guns, and an 8 month old pit bull puppy who had been used as a bait dog in a recent dog fight. Her leg was horribly broken and had to be amputated. The suspect was wanted on two other warrants and is in jail facing multiple charges.

This story illustrates the link between violent crimes. Where there is animal abuse, there are often other crimes as well. SSHS is grateful for the strong relationship and cooperation that has developed with the Cook County Sheriff’s office.

Spring is now being fostered by the SSHS Spay/Neuter Clinic’s Office Manager, Janet Kraii who is going above and beyond the call of duty.

Here is where YOU come in:

Give to The Promise of Spring fund at SSHS – go to www.southsuburbanhumanesociety.org

or send a check to:

South Suburban Humane Society

The Promise of Spring Fund

1103 West End Ave.

Chicago Heights, IL 60411

or call 708-755-7387

Bid on the painting – pledge your bid – The painting that is being created by artist Margie Glass-Sula (who was inspired by Deborah Vyskocil’s photo of Spring) will be on display at the April 23 Spotlight event as part of the silent auction.

Pre-event bids are being accepted and you have the option to pledge your bid as a donation to The Promise of Spring Fund. Contact Jeff Stevenson to make a bid and to find out the current bid amount via email jeff@jeffstevenson.com and be sure to include your full name and information. The bidding will continue on April 23rd and the winner will be announced!

Install the painting

Should you be the lucky winner, even if you don’t have a place in your home for this beautiful 36” x 36” oil painting on canvas, you can have the painting installed at South Suburban Humane Society, complete with title plaque, as a tribute to this amazing dog and to raise awareness about The Promise of Spring Fund.

FYI....

In 2009 SSHS handled over 1000 abuse investigation cases. On average, the current abuse investigation program costs SSHS $189 per day to operate. In order to purchase much needed equipment and to improve the program additional funds will be needed.

The Promise of Spring Fund is your way to help SSHS put an end to animal abuse.

Here is the finished work featuring Spring.

She is truly another beautiful Gutter Dog.

Spring

Oil on Canvas

36" x 36"

Looking forward to SPOTLIGHT HUMANE!

THANKS for reading!!!!

Spring...

2010-04-11T14:15:00.000-07:00

I have been busy working on the painting for South Suburban Humane Society's upcoming charity event SPOTLIGHT HUMANE. The painting is 99.9% complete, but I wanted to share a bit about how I have created the work, and what I know about the wonderful SSHS shelter dog that was chosen to be featured.

I received several photos this dog, whose name is Spring.

She was rescued by SSHS Humane Investigators from abusive living conditions, and taken to the shelter for treatment. She suffered the loss of her

front leg due to her cruel former life, and her body is lightly deckled with some scars.

But I see past this.

I see a hope-filled loving spirit shining through the smokey sweet eyes of a dog with a proud stance- obviously the people at SSHS did too.

I chose to work from the above photo to portray Spring.

Starting with a pencil sketch, I then decide on a canvas size and placement of the image, then begin what I consider an "under-painting" in monotone oil glaze.

(under-painting of Spring)

The next step I take is to add very light layers of tinted oil glaze to the painting.

This is the point when the image really starts to warm up the canvas.

Spring with the first few layers of tinted glaze.

As I continue to add the layers of tinted glaze in several colors, the image of Spring emerges quite nicely. I use this layering technique in order to lend a soft effect to the image.

Here is the work in its present state. It is near completion and will be delivered to SSHS this week. And of course, the title of the work is Spring...

Spring

Oil on Canvas

36" x 36"

If you are interested in purchasing the painting, attending SPOTLIGHT HUMANE, making a donation, or adopting a pet, by all means contact South Suburban Humane Society!

1103 West End Avenue

Chicago Heights, IL 60411

708-755-7387

or click this link to their website.

I will be posting more images of the painting soon!

Thanks for reading!

South Suburban Humane Society: SPOTLIGHT HUMANE

2010-04-03T14:42:00.000-07:00

Recently I was contacted by a wonderful Chicago artist Jeff Stevenson about creating an artwork for an event held by a very busy animal shelter that he is involved with.

Well, lets just say I all but jumped at this, it's where my heart is!

The shelter, South Suburban Humane Society, located in Chicago Heights, IL is an extremely busy 501(c)(3) shelter that works tirelessly with the entire south Chicagoland area to save, educate, re-home, and rescue animals, (even pit-bull terriers and other bully breeds).

Every year they host a fun event to raise funds called SPOTLIGHT HUMANE.

The event features the shelter animals in a fashion style show, with dinner, drinks, silent auction, and more.

SPOTLIGHT HUMANE

April 23, 2010

7pm-11pm

Holiday Inn

Matteson, IL

Tickets:

Individual: $60

Table for Ten: $500

For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact:

South Suburban Humane Society

708-755-7387

Here is the shelter dog that that I will be creating an artwork of to be auctioned off at this great charity event!

Her name is "Spring".

Check back soon to read about Spring, and see the artwork featuring her!

The Gutter Dog Project 2011: Submissions now being accepted...

2010-03-07T11:49:00.000-08:00

Do you know of a Gutter Dog?

Do you know of a legitimate canine (bully-breed) rescue that would benefit from receiving a Gutter Dog fine artwork?

Then please contact me!

(Detail of Scarface, 2010; inspiration for the Gutter Dog project)

How to Submit an Entry:

E-mail submissions accepted at this time.

If further correspondence is necessary, I will e-mail you back or telephone you.

Please Include:

Rescue name & all contact info.

Rescued Dog’s story
Dog’s name, breed, age, & current status.
Why this dog?
What makes this one standout?
Special need of dog or rescue, volunteers?

E-Mail Submissions to:

thegutterdogproject@gmail.com

I will be accepting submissions until August 31, 2010.

Three Rescues & dogs will be chosen.

I will forward rules/policy to those who submit & request the info.

The selections will be made by September 31, 2010.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

SOLD!

2010-02-17T16:07:00.000-08:00

I am so very happy to report that the work featuring the first 2010 Gutter Dog "Bonita" has been sold already!

A & S Rescue received the painting recently and decided to sell it outright.

"Bonita's" owners were aware of the project,

and paid a generous $500 for the painting of their dog directly to the rescue.

I am so pleased that they liked the work so much!

Their kindness and generosity will enable A & S Rescue to help another dog like "Bonita"

out of horrific conditions, and into good ones.

Here's a close up of the finished painting.

"Bonita"

THANK YOU.

I will post any and all info about the works featuring "Blossom" & "ScarFace" as soon as I receive it.

I am working to set up a criteria listing and e-mail for rescues to submit for The Gutter Dog Project 2011 so I will post as soon as I get everything organized.

The Gutter Dog Project 2010

2010-02-09T15:19:00.000-08:00

The Gutter Dog Project 2010, is a small series of oil paintings in which I have created three works from the likenesses of three different severely abused, neglected and discarded dogs- all to raise awareness, benefit, and support their rescuers- individuals who tirelessly on nothing but donations, dreams, and the good will of volunteers.

I feel that everything has a particular state of being that includes bliss, beauty, and peace...even if only for a moment. This is what I strive to capture and share through all my artworks and this series is no different. I see these works as more than just images of surviving "gutter dogs". I see them as inadvertent symbols for the humane over the inhumane. I chose to portray these three special dogs as beautiful and redemptive- their true state of being in order to convey this sentiment.

Here is the complete series.

The works are currently in transit to the selected rescues.

The Gutter Dog Project 2010: Blossom, ScarFace, Bonita.

Bonita (A & S Rescue) is currently living the good life with her owners who loving refer to her as "Bon Bon".

Blossom (Luv-A-Bull Rescue) is enjoying her golden years with her owner and still does a "happy dance" for treats.

Though ScarFace (Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue) passed away some years back, thanks to his loving owners his legacy is alive and well.

I will post an update as soon as the rescues receive the works, and reach decisions as to how the artwork will be used for funding.

I will be posting info on how to submit for the The Gutter Dog Project 2011 very soon!

The Artwork: Painting Complete.

2010-02-05T19:11:00.000-08:00

I see these painted artworks as more than just images resembling the surviving "gutter dogs" I chose to portrayed. Instead I see them as inadvertent symbols for all the is right and all that is wrong with humankind. This which is embodied in the animal that is supposed to be mankind's best friend. I have portrayed these particular three formerly abused canines as beautiful, redemptive spirits in order to convey this sentiment, and their real state of being.

~Thank you to those that rescue~

"Bonita"

Oil on canvas 16" x 20"

A & S Rescue Antioch, IL

"Blossom"

Oil on canvas 24" x 20"

Luv A Bull Rescue Eugene, OR

"ScarFace"

Oil on canvas 24" x 36"

Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue Chicago, IL

The quote below came to me attached to an e-mail that was forwarded to me this week, and it seemed very appropriate to include it today:

I am an Animal Rescuer. My work is never done. My home is never quiet. My wallet is always empty...but my heart is always full. -author unknown.

The paintings are finished, and I am going to try to get them framed over the weekend.

I will be packing them to send to the rescues hopefully on Monday.

If you are interested in purchasing one of the works,

please contact the corresponding rescue to find out how to do so in the near future.

I am planning to create works annually for The Gutter Dog Project.

If you know of an eligible dog and legitimate rescue that would like to submit a story and images for this, please check back soon to find out how.

Thanks for reading!

The Artwork: Painting Progressing!!!

2010-01-29T16:39:00.000-08:00

The paintings are coming along quite nicely! I have been layering and layering the oil glazes and wanted to share their progession. I plan to have them all finished next week. I have hopes that they can be completed and ready to go to the rescues before Valentine's Day...

Gutter Dog #1

"Bonita"

A & S Rescue Antioch, IL

Having applied many light layers, "Bonita's" lovely state of being is emerging!

"Bonita's" work is nearly finished! Only a few more layers, and she will be ready to go help A&S raise funds!!!!

Gutter Dog #2

"Blossom"

Luv A Bull Pit Bull Rescue Eugene, OR

Several more layers will be added to "Blossom" to enrich her complex coat colors.

In a closer shot "Blossom's" multi-colored brindle coat is apparent.

Gutter Dog #3

"ScarFace"

Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue Chicago, IL

The work featuring "ScarFace" is progessing with several new layers of color glaze having been added.

Here's a closer look at him!

Parting Snapshots:

The Studio Assistants are looking forward to Spring...

"East Side Ethel" has been wanting to be outside! She stays out exploring until her toes get too cold, comes in & runs around the studio, sits for a milli-second for a treat, then pesters everyone to play & rub her tummy.

"No Ears Angus" has been busy eating and winter daydreaming, most likely about peanut butter or turkey.

Thanks for reading!

Check back soon for the final images!

The Artwork: Painting in Progress

2010-01-20T09:01:00.000-08:00

The paintings are progressing and should be complete soon!

I am still using the sketches and photos previously posted as references.

Though I normally tend to abstract my work a bit more than this I felt it was necessary for The Gutter Dogs to all be recognizable as "dogs" in order for this project to portray them properly, (and that "state of being" that I strive to capture in my art work). Here are images of the paintings in the beginning, or the stage known as a sort of under-painting.

Gutter Dog No. 1

"Bonita"

A & S Rescue Antioch, Illinois

Base layer of "Bonita".

I use a light tone to create a base or under-painting of the image. This layer is all important to be correct in proportion and shading. It will have layers added on top of it in order to add some depth to it.

A few layers of transparent, tinted oil glaze have been added to the under-painting here, and "Bonita" is already looking good!

Gutter Dog No. 2

"Blossom"

Luv-A-Bull Rescue Eugene, Oregon

Here is the canvas I am working on for "Blossom".

I have applied several different layers of transparent tinted oil glaze already to the base layer,

but more will definitely be necessary.

Gutter Dog No. 3

"ScarFace"

Chicago Bully Breed Rescue Chicago, Illinois

Base or under-painting of "ScarFace". Since he is primarily white one would think he would require less layers of the tinted oil glaze that I use, but not so. He is actually several different shades of white and he had many pigment spots under his hair coat. The layering technique will work nicely to capture this.

Parting Snapshot: in the studio

The Studio Assistants: "No Ears Angus" & "Eastside Ethel"

(My personal gutter dogs)

Thanks for visiting!

The Artwork...

2010-01-14T13:18:00.000-08:00

About my Art...

The Choke Berry oil on canvas 48"x48"

I always try to capture a particular state of being

in the things I draw and paint, and these artworks will be no different.

In a nutshell I guess I like to consider this "state of being" to be one that includes beauty, bliss,

and peace together, only if for a moment. I have posted a couple of images here of some paintings from my latest series of work titled Orga nic Beings.

My artistic genre is organic objects; you know things from nature. So the Gutter Dog works will not exactly leave this realm, (after all, dogs are organic beings too).

If you wish to view more of my work, you can visit my website where you will find it, along with a link to a review of my last exhibition.

Un-Bloomed oil on canvas 48"x48"

I work with what some artists call a "light hand". That meaning when I draw or paint something, I don't leave forceful or "painterly" marks with my pencils or brushes. My works have been referred to as "visual whispers".

As usual, I want nothing less for my Gutter Dogs artwork, so I have approached their creation in the same manner, though the scale of the paintings will be smaller in order to be more accommodating.

I have been using my favorite recycled hemp paper and tinted graphite pencils to create prep or composition sketches from the reference photos of the three dogs: Bonita, Blossom, & ScarFace.

Here's Bonita's sketch on the drawing board.

I instantly plucked this photo from the ones that were sent to me for this project. Taken not too long after she was rescued from horrid living conditions and starvation. Her expression is priceless with the wiggling-waggling stance and the anticipation of that lip poking forward to greet you is just too much.

"BONITA"

If this isn't a reveal of that "state of

being" I don't know what is!

Choosing the picture of Blossom came after her owner had sent me several photos, and I went back to read the story that the late Lora Bauer had written one more time. I kept going back to read this for some reason until it finally clicked. I realized that I had the perfect photo to work from- she was sitting by pots of flowers just busting with blooms out in Oregon at her new home, far away from where she nearly died had it not been for Lora and the other rescuers. I recalled the lines Lora wrote about just how Blossom got her name:

"BLOSSOM"

This sweet pup was named Blossom at my mother's suggestion- she said that with enough love and attention, she would "blossom" into a beautiful dog- how right she was!!

ScarFace was the most difficult of the three Gutter Dogs to choose an image to work from. I suppose I can say it was due to the numerous great photos that his owners made available to me, or perhaps it was that I actually had seen him in person when he lived next door. Anyhow, I finally settled on an image of him sitting outdoors enjoying the mid-point of his life-his good life that is. What I eventually noticed in this photo was that despite all the apparent physical attributes his body bore from his former cruel life- the cropped ears, bad leg, and hundreds of scars -all seemed to be muted- there was just a poised, handsome, and happy dog sitting in the grass- he was in the perfect "state of being" for a dog.

"SCARFACE"

I have been happily tucked in my studio painting during this cold mid west winter, so the artworks are moving right along. I will have pictures of the progress posted soon!

Thanks for reading!

The Art of a good Video...

2010-01-05T16:43:00.000-08:00

I was just sent a link to a great video from the owners of "Bonita", who is one of the first Gutter Dogs. I am not well versed in the video arts, but apparently some pit bull lovers and rescues are. This is a great example of what these rescues are all about:

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AWARENESS, and most of all LOVE!

There are pictures of some A & S Pit Bull Rescue dogs featured here, and one in particular of Bonita...can you spot her?

Thanks for reading...and watching!

Check back soon for the first images of the artworks being created.

Happy 2010!

"ScarFace" (a.k.a. Buttercup) Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue Chicago, IL

2009-12-31T11:59:00.000-08:00

I guess the name says a lot? Or does it? When I introduced The Gutter Dog Project there was a particular dog I mentioned. I have to say that dog, well he was instrumental in the creation of this project. His name was "ScarFace". He is pictured here. For me, he is the epitome of the modern Gutter Dog.

Though "ScarFace" passed away in 2003 at the ripe age of eleven, he was the first real gutter dog I ever knew, nor will I ever forget.

When I approached his owners about this project for permission in using his story and image, I was unsure of what emotions I may conjure. Needless to say they were very accommodating. They were happy in the fact that their dog was not just being

remembered, but that his ordeal was to be used as a source of inspiration. They opened their photo albums and dug out old articles that had been printed about their beloved gutter dog.

"But his name wasn't always "ScarFace", it was "Buttercup" at first..." his owner told me.

I got it immediately.

One reflects the outside of the dog, the other the inside.

So, as we all have learned, don't judge a book by the cover.

This whole story began back in 1995 on a fateful morning. Hobbling down one

of Chicago's mean streets was this big white, bruised, battered, and broken pit-bull dog. But, fate was on his side that morning because a lady police officer found him. Sergeant Doreen of the Chicago P.D. knew she had found a fighting dog by his appearance-his ears were crudely cropped off, his body marked with fresh bite wounds on top of the old ones, and his front leg was badly damaged inflicting him with excruciating pain-but he had managed to hobble thus far. Out of the cruel hand of humanity and into the other that holds compassion. Sgt. Doreen knew she had found a fighter, but a sweetie pie of a dog too. His swollen mug is pictured here.

She turned the dog over to humane investigator Laszlo Saendrio, who was known to help animals in such predicaments. Through Mr. Saendrio's efforts and the financial support of Tree House Animal Foundation, this big battered dog got to recover. He was named "Buttercup" to reflect his personality to potential adopters.

His story blew about the windy city, and of course Mr. Saendrio was inundated with offers, but he resisted in letting his "Buttercup" go until July of 1995, when he met the couple that he just knew was perfect.

Here is an account from a letter that "Buttercup's" new owner wrote that appeared in the October 1998 Front and Finish (a publication of dog training news), in their "As the Tale Wags" column:

"The first day we met Scarface (Buttercup) we had a rush of emotions, pity, anger, disgust, compassion.

As well as a little fear.

He was such a powerful dog and we

were not sure what we were getting ourselves into. After spending 2 hours with him I knew.

We are so thankful that they did not destroy this beautiful animal.

I hope (his) story will encourage others to give a rescue dog a home."

That he has and more.

"Buttercup" eventually became known as "ScarFace". He celebrated many good time with his new owners- and by the way, after viewing the photos of him in those albums, this dog lived happily for the rest of his life.

So where does Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue fit into this story?

Since "ScarFace" passed on, his owners have taken in another pit bull rescued by Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue (and this dog came all the way from Puerto Rico, this tale is a whole other story in itself). So when I inquired of "ScarFace's" owners as to what rescue they wished the artwork featuring their late dog should go to, there was little hesitation in their decision. They chose this one due to the need of this extremely dedicated rescue.

So it actually is perfect: a real life Chicago Gutter Dog for a real Chicago rescue.

Often referred to as CBBR, this rescue is relentless. The volunteers of CBBR will literally go the ends of the earth to save a dog in distress-and yes, I said VOLUNTEERS. They are a hardy bunch of individuals scattered about the city of Chicago and its suburbs.

CBBR is a not-for-profit rescue with aspirations to have their own shelter/sanctuary facility in the Chicago area someday soon. For now, the volunteers of CBBR open their homes to foster dogs that they love, evaluate, socialize, and train. CBBR is always active with adoption events and fundraisers for their dogs.

For more information about Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue, like how to help, become a foster home, see pictures of their dogs, how to adopt, shop for merchandise, upcoming events, and education about the bully breed, please visit their new website!

The artwork of "Scarface" will go directly to Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue to be used in their fundraising and awareness efforts.

Thanks for visiting, caring and reading about "ScarFace".

Check back soon for more links, images of our three The Gutter Dogs, and the creation of their artwork.

Blossom's Story by Lora A. Bauer

2009-12-21T16:33:00.000-08:00

Blossom's story:

A year in the life of a rescue dog.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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"If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you; that is the principal difference betweena dog and a man." --

Mark Twain

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Most people call hoping I can "place" a dog they no longer want - they're not usually looking for a dog to adopt. Usually I didn't get too "involved" - I would take the information and pass it along to other rescue people, or those few looking for a dog. Tuesday, March 30, 1999 was different. It was the beginning of my involvement in rescue.

The local Humane Society called. They don't normally place any "bull breed" dogs because the shelter is located in a not-so-nice area. There are a lot of illegal activities going on, some involving dogs. When they get a "keeper", they call me, hoping I might know someone that could offer it a home.

On Monday March 29, Humane Officer Ron Smith received a call from someone on a pleasure boat on one of Pittsburgh PA's famed "Three Rivers". Somewhere in the middle of nowhere, in an old closed up steel mill area, underneath a bridge, the boater pulled ashore to get out and stretch his legs. Thank God he did. There, tied to a stump, was the tiny body of an AmStaff puppy, barely alive.

Upon arrival, Officer Ron had to climb through a fence and down an embankment - to a spot that was not visible from the road or the river. There he found the pitiful ten month old pup, covered with open sores and bite wounds. She must have been the loser of a street fight, and intentionally left there to die. Emaciated and so dehydrated she couldn't stand, yet chained a mere three feet away from a large river. Straining to get a drink, her collar had dug into her neck deeply, creating a huge open sore. As Officer Ron picked her up to carry her to safety, her tail wagged a feeble "thank you", and she gently licked his face like only this breed can do.

Back at the shelter, the staff debated immediate euthanization, just to end her suffering. But they decided that if any dog deserved a second chance, it was her, so they called me to see if I could help. As I stood at work listening to her story, tears began to pour down my face, just from the thought of how she must have suffered through the past few days. I could just imagine her repeatedly thrashing at her collar to try to reach the water, with the determination that these dogs have.

I pulled my thoughts together, and made a few frantic phone calls and sent out emails, trying to round up a foster home for this pup. The boarding kennel I manage was already full for the Spring Break/ Easter weekend. Finally, within a few hours I secured a "temporary" foster home until room opened up at the kennel.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next day I went to the shelter to see the pup and take her to her foster home. The kennel employees were calling her "Scar". She was the most pitiful sight I'd seen in a long time.

When I first walked into the room, she was curled up in such a tight little ball I could hardly see her. They said she had done nothing but sleep since she got there. She probably hadn't done much sleeping while she was chained up to die. As I got closer and talked to her, her tail started thumping. When I got to the cage she rolled on herback submissively, tail constantly wagging. When I opened the cage to pet her she laid very still, probably waiting to see if I was friend or foe. I brought her some Pupperoni treats, which she wolfed down, followed by a couple of big Milk-Bones. As she was eating the first one, I reached over to pet her face. She never tensed up, growled, or in any way guarded the biscuit. If I was in her condition, I probably would have bitten if I thought someone would take my food!! She munched the second biscuit in half, and dropped a piece of it back into my hand to hold while she finished the first. Her eyes were all lit up, like she'd never had a treat before.

I began to look over her, trying to assess the damage to her poor little body. I couldn't control the tears running down my face. She looked up and tentatively licked my face, then wagged her tail and licked even harder! I couldn't believe her behavior. How could she trust a human after what had happened to her?? Then she tried to crawl into my lap to snuggle. I wanted to give her a big hug, but she was so frail I was afraid to hurt her.

They had told me on the phone that she was "homely". Even in her condition, I could see that she was a pretty girl!! She had a dark brindle coat, with just a little white blaze, a white chest, and feet, and a very sweet face. She was about 19" at the shoulder, but weighing only about 27 pounds. Her body was literally covered with scabs. Wherever bone met skin there was a pressure sore. Her spine stuck up over an inch. There was a huge hole in her neck from the collar rubbing, and her front legs were badly chewed up. One ear was torn completely through, about a half inch or more, and there was a deep gash in her left pastern that went almost to the bone- leaving the dewclaw and the bone behind it almost torn off.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Even in her condition, she didn't flinch or try to move away from us while we examined her. She didn't even resist as we looped a leash over her head, even though last time something was around her neck it almost killed her. All she wanted to do was climb into my lap and give me kisses, just like any other AmStaff.

Within days this abused, injured pup was tugging at heartstrings across the country as her story circulated the internet. It was printed in a nationally read newspaper column called "Pet Tales" and her pictures were posted on her own website, donated by a friend. This sweet pup was named Blossom at my mother's suggestion- she said that with enough love and attention, she would Blossom into a beautiful dog - how right she was!!

To my surprise, donations began flowing in from all over the country to help pay for Blossom's food and medical care! I was overwhelmed with thescope of the concern for this one little dog, who had been discarded like trash just a short time ago! As spring turned into summer, Blossom began to look like a different dog - happy and healthy, and barely showing any physical signs of her former near-death experience. Her personality is fantastic - a testament to the stability of this breed. She adores people and thrived on any little token of affection- a fresh blanket in her kennel made her prance around happily, and a pig ear would practically put her in heaven!! It took her a while to be secure enough to run and play in the fenced yard- at first she wouldn't leave my side, afraid to be abandoned again.

After the infection in her front leg finally subsided, we discovered a fracture in her front leg, and she had to wear a cast for a while. Once that healed, she was finally healthy enough to spay. As summer began to fade, sadly, the one thing that was lacking was someone to take this beautiful dog home. It seems that her former abuse scared off many adopters, who were unwilling to take this "former fighter" into their homes.

Leah Purcell from Spindletop Refuge in Houston generously offered to take her in for training and placement, if I could find a way to get her there. Again, donations came in to pay for her plane fare. She arrived in Texas in November of 1999, to begin to be introduced to household manners and obedience training. She immediately took to the training, including agility obstacles, and became a favorite of the staff. She even learned to be social with some other dogs!! But still that special home eluded her.

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Finally, in March of 2000, I got an email saying "Hi, I am adopting Blossom, and I wanted to thank you for saving her" - I began shaking, and called Leah. "Is this true?" I asked her, mindful of the many people who didn't follow through. Well, it WAS true, and on Friday, April 7, 2000, exactly one year and one week from the day she almost lost her life on the riverbank, Blossom boarded a plane to Oregon.

She is now living a storybook life, on a home with 180 acres of woods and trails, other dogs, and a doting "mom". I just got my first pictures of her new life, and when I showed them to Officer Ron, who found her, tears welled up in his eyes, and he said he can't even imagine her being so happy- he still sees her tied to a stump on the riverbank when he closes his eyes.

This story could not have had a happy ending if it hadn't been for the phone call of a good Samaritan and all the generous donations from all over the country, and STCA's rescue fund. While we will unfortunately never find out who did this to Blossom, at least her suffering wasn't in vain. Because of her, I have continued to do rescue work, and have placed about 6 other great dogs in homes, and the shelter has begun to rethink its policy of non-adoption of bull breeds.

Please keep Blossom and other rescue dogs in your hearts- and help out with rescue whenever you can. Personally or financially- rescues are terribly overburdened and under funded. She was just one of the thousands of homeless dogs that are discarded in this country every year. One of the lucky ones.

And finally, PLEASE be careful who you sell your puppies to!! After all, Blossom was once a cute little pup, and it is obvious that she had some love and affection at some point before her ordeal began. Hug your dogs tonight, and be glad they've never endured Blossom's agony.

"Blossom" Luv-A-Bull Pit Bull Rescue & Sactuary Eugene, OR

2009-12-21T15:18:00.000-08:00

I new I would receive hear-wrenching stories when I put the word out about The Gutter Dog Project, and this is one of them.

Blossom's story welled my eyes with tears, yet left me smiling. Her account was funneled to me by a friend who said if I cried when I read it, that in itself should be enough to convince me to choose her as one of the initial Gutter Dogs. I still can't quit thinking about her ordeal. This is a photo from the first days of her rescue.

Embodied in this story are the two opposite ends of humanity, and everything in between. This dog's story crosses the United States, involves great loss, covers a decade, inspired rescuers, and created a sanctuary for abused dogs.

Her initial rescuer, the late Lora A. Bauer passed away about 4 years ago, but she left such an eloquent recount of the initial rescue, I will post it in its entirety for those who wish to read and know the whole story-if your a dog lover it is a must read.

Though I never knew Lora, it's the least I can do for her legacy. Thank You Lora, your compassion shall not be forgotten.

As for Blossom, well she is now over 11 years old, and gets everything a dog could ever ask for from the woman who adopted her ten years ago. Not too long after her adoption, Blossom inspired her owner to found Luv-A-Bull Pit Bull Rescue and Sanctuary in 2000. Coincidentally, it's their ten-year anniversary.

Recently Blossom's owner shared her recollections of the first time the two met when Blossom arrived at the airport in Oregon all those years ago. Her account was so vivid, I felt as if I was standing there myself watching the precious cargo wiggling about:

"I knew the moment I saw her ten years ago in that airplane crate, being unloaded from the plane by two beefy guys, that she was an amazing dog...after that long noisy and stressful flight to Oregon from Texas, all she could think to do was try to get her tongue through the plastic & lick the hands of the guys carrying her crate! And she was wiggling so hard with happiness and excitement that she almost fell over! When I opened the crate, she threw herself in my arms, like we were best friends who hadn't seen each other in years...I could not believe how joyful and confident she was with life, after all she had been through..."

Blossom's past was behind her now, for she was truly "home" in that moment at the airport.

Luv-A-Bull Pit Bull Rescue & Sanctuary in Eugene, Oregon works to rescue

unwanted, abandoned, and abused dogs. Here the dogs receive love, treatment, and training based on the dog's individual needs. Visit their wonderful website for more information about this truly enchanted rescue. Find out how to send a donation, view pictures of their great dogs available for adoption, and get info on their adoption process. Even The Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan has visited Luv-A-Bull rescue.

The artwork I create of Blossom will go directly to Luv-A-Bull for their use in fundraising.

Please check back soon to see the final inaugural Gutter Dog.

A holiday reminder...

Don't forget your animal shelters and rescues this holiday season. Here's a great picture of Blossom herself decorating for the season. Even if it's just a small bag of pet food, or five dollars it truly CAN HELP!!!!

Thanks for visiting...

"Bonita" A&S Rescue Antioch, IL

2009-12-15T14:45:00.000-08:00

Not all Gutter Dogs are victims of dog fighting. Some are victims of confinement, over breeding, hoarding, and neglect. The founder of A&S American Pit Bull & Staffordshire Terrier Rescue in Antioch, IL sent one such case to me.

She said they had recently rescued a 3 year-old female pit bull that was a victim of

the fore mentioned tortures this past spring. She felt strongly that this particular dog would fit my project due to the dog's recent rescue, circumstances, personality, and happy ending. When I was informed of her story, and corresponded with her new owners, I knew she was right.

This dog was found starved and confined in a home with over a dozen other dogs. She literally was skin and bones, had sores all over her body, and appeared to be struggling to care for a few puppies that she had at the time. She is pictured here during her recovery this past May.

A & S Rescue volunteers took her in, got her the medical attention she needed, worked to fatten her up, and ultimately find her a new home.

Though starved nearly to death, this dog renamed "Bonita" is not stingy or aggressive with food according to her new owners. When I corresponded with her new owners, I learned that she was living the good life now, full of treats, bones, games of fetch, and the wonderful companionship of their two other rescued dogs, Darby & Sandy.

I couldn't help but to inquire about how they came up with her new name.

They told me that bonita means "pretty or beautiful" in Spanish, and they knew a dog rescued in Mexico with the name, and liked it.

I will forever think of her as "Skin & Bones Bonita",

though I know she is anything but skin and bones now,

as she is pictured here.

Founded in 2001, A & S Rescue focuses on getting dogs out of bad situations, rehabilitated, and into good permanent homes. Through their network of volunteers that most likely laugh, cry, sacrifice, and network with others who have the same passion, they have rescued hundreds of dogs to date. Visit their website and see some of them on their eight pages of "Happy Endings".

You can also test your pit-bull knowledge, shop for goodies for you and your dog that will benefit this rescue.

When I finish the artwork featuring Bonita, it will go directly to A & S Rescue for fundraising.

I will add updates, progress on the work, and the next Gutter Dog's story soon!

Thanks for visiting, following, reading, and caring.

Introducing the idea...

2009-12-05T11:38:00.000-08:00

The Gutter Dog Project is a 100% charitable undertaking in which three fine visual artworks will be created from the likenesses of three different severely abused, neglected, and discarded dogs- all to support and benefit their rescuers- organizations who work tirelessly on nothing but donations, dreams, & the good will of volunteers.

I am a former animal care worker who has recently completed my masters degree in visual art. The project is the start of a series of oil paintings behind which I have invested many hours of thought and work, as I do with all my professional artworks.

Here's how it all started...
The term gutter dog originally came to me years ago after reading an old book from England that a breeder & rescuer of English Bull Terriers introduced to me. Published in 1902, The Bar Sinister by Richard Harding-Davis is a redemptive story about a white English Bull Terrier's struggle to survive as a stray mongrel or gutter dog on the back streets, rise out of the
brutal fighting rings present in pubs in 19th century England only to live the good life as a show winning companion.

The one thing that stuck with me from reading Harding-Davis's book was that term...gutter dog.
It would be not but a few years after reading that book
that I would see the modern Americanized epitome of a white gutter dog. It moved in next door to me as the loving pet of my new neighbors, and he is pictured here above.

He was a big battered gleaming white pit bull terrier. His ears had been cut off and his entire face was speckled with scars. All reminders of his former life. The thing that I particularly noticed were his happy, loving eyes.
So there he was, a real gutter dog.

His presence and heart set the standard for the dogs that I have come to focus on for this project: America's favorite breed to mistreat and misunderstand the pit bull terrier. Not since the fore mentioned days in England has another canine breed suffered so terribly by the hand of humans, right here, right now in the United States.

I see these dogs as more than just "gutter dogs", they have inadvertently become a personal symbol for all that is right, and all that is wrong with humankind.
I simply put the word out about this project, and got a good response, and of course lots of submissions. I chose three particular dogs due to their stories. Stories that are not just sad, but spirited and redemptive.

My usual visual genre is our connection to nature, so I have not stepped too far from my calling card to create these artworks.

I intend for this project to bring recognition, awareness, new proper homes, and some extra funding to those who glean with selflessness to rescue these dogs.

I have shared my home for a few years now with a rescued dog, and now a pup as well pictured here.

Please check back soon to see the dogs I have selected to portray and read their stories. There will be project updates, images, links, and more, plus info on how to help a Gutter Dog yourself.

Thanks for visiting...