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Today’s Hours: 11am – 6pm
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This past summer, the American Kennel Club held a National Art Contest for students aged 5 to 18. The theme was “Canine Connection,” and the winners of each age group have their works exhibited here at the AKC Museum of the Dog. The AKC Education Department judged the entries and selected a winner from the following age categories: 5-8yo, 9-12yo, 13-15yo, and 16-18yo. The exhibition can be found on our mezzanine level. See the hard work of these talented students on your next visit! On view until January 5th.
Cailyn Skiles, Age 17, Blacklick, OH. By My Side, 2024, acrylic paint.
When looking for inspiration for a painting, I often turn towards photos from my childhood, and this was no exception. I came across this photo of me as a baby with my childhood dog, Max. I thought it fit the prompt of “Canine Connection” perfectly and shows the special relationship between a child and their first dog. Max was also a Cairn Terrier certified by the American Kennel Club, so it felt like a great way to honor him. I decided to paint this in acrylic and wanted to create an impressionistic style, using distinguishable brush strokes.
Diana Hurtado Febres, Age 14, Orlando, FL. St Bernard to the Rescue, 2024, acrylic paint and markers.
This piece is composed of a mix of watercolor, acrylic paint, and markers. What inspired me to create this piece was my dad’s childhood dog, Nevado, who was a St. Bernard and passed away before I was born. His admirable stories inspired me to learn more about St. Bernards. I quickly found out that these dogs were once used for rescues in the snow and avalanches. I believe dogs can save people, St. Bernard Rescue Dogs being a literal example. Thanks to Nevado and the stories I heard of him growing up, I hold St. Bernads and the work they do close to my heart.
Shivi Choudhary, Age 9, Downington, PA. The Canine-cted Two, 2024, oil pastels.
I have used oil pastels as the art medium. I have always enjoyed watching kids play with dogs in their yards and at parks. I got inspiration for this piece from a little girl blowing bubbles at her dog. The dog was intrigued and watched her affectionately. I saw how this curiosity was forming a friendly bond between the two. Dogs learn a lot from humans, and their friendship develops quickly.
Ivan De Paz, Age 8, Boothwyn, PA. A Sunny Friend For a Rainy Day, 2024, pen and ink and chalk pastel.
I created this art because when I am sad, my dog, Sunny, cheers me up and makes me laugh. This art makes me feel the connection and bond between Sunny and me.
Know a student who is interested in an opportunity to show off their artistic skills?
AKC Education Department is hosting another art contest in conjunction with the AKC Meet the Breeds Event held on January 25-26, 2025! All students from the tri-state area are encouraged to submit their artwork for a chance to win a prize and have their pieces displayed. Visit the AKC Public Education website for more information about the contest. The deadline for submissions is December 16, 2024. Tickets for Meet the Breeds are on sale now! Come meet over 100 breeds of dog and have the best day ever!