I came across these dog portraits on Instagram recently. Drawn in pencil by Chloe Bren I found them immediately arresting and I would love to share my thoughts with you. Here are some of the things I like about Bren’s shadow drawings.
- Firstly, I like dogs, a lot!
- I also like how the shadow is the subject (main focus).
Usually, you would expect the dog itself to be the star of the show. I like to be surprised, so having the shadow as the focus felt new and fresh to me. - I like the colours.
The Yves Klein Blue1 (the royal blue) is one of my favourite colours. I love this colour because it feels energetic and serene at the same time. I like that tension between peace and vibrancy. I also like the colours of the dog’s fur. On first glance you may think the little dog is black, but! You’re being tricked! If you look closely you can see tones of red, aqua, blue and even lilac in its coat, how clever?! - I like the negative space (empty space).
The paper being mostly blank gives importance to the dog and its shadow. I especially like how much of the frame (page) is ahead of the dog – it feels like freedom — you can go anywhere little mate, off you trot! - Most of all I love the dog’s jaunty little walk.
Where is he going? Where has he been? Is he hungry? Maybe he needs a snack? A pat? Just one, go on!
If you love these illustrations as much as I do, you’re in luck! Chloe accepts commissions so make contact if you’d like your pooch and its shadow drawn. She also posts regularly on Instagram if you’d like to follow her there.
What I like about … is a series of art conversations written in plain language. I hope that in time, all people can feel connected to the art they enjoy and gain confidence talking about it. Often, the art elite make people feel silly when they talk about art, but art is for everyone. I’d love for you to join the conversation. What do you like about this work?
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