David Hockney’s Dog Days

This glossy paperback book would make a charming present for a Dachshund lover.  In this delightful collection, David Hockney introduces his two dachshunds, Stanley and Boodgie.  The result of both sharp observation and affection, these paintings and drawings are lyrical studies in form and design.  A text by the artist gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how to work with models who don’t necessarilly want to sit still.  The book contains 84 illustrations.

In David Hockney’s own words:

‘From September 1993, I painted and drew my dogs.  This took a certain amount of planning, since dogs are generally not interested in Art (I say generally only because I have now come across a singing dog).  Food and love dominate their lives.

‘I make no apologies for the apparent subject matter.  These two dear little creatures are my friends.  They are intelligent, loving, comical and often bored.  They watch me work; I notice the warm shapes they make together, their sadness and their delights.  And, being, Hollyood dogs, they somehow seem to know that a picture is being made.’

‘Hockney’s usual brilliant eye for colour is ever present – The Times

‘A charming collection …. an essential book for the dachshund or Hockney lover’ – The Mail on Sunday