Living with two whippets has given me intimate knowledge of the sighthound spirit – that remarkable blend of zen-like tranquility and instantaneous readiness that makes these dogs such extraordinary companions. This painting isn’t a direct portrait of my own dogs, though their coat coloration inspired the palette; rather, it’s a celebration of the greyhound essence and the joy these animals bring.
I deliberately enlarged the eyes in a manga-inspired style to emphasize both alertness and sweetness, capturing that moment when a resting greyhound suddenly becomes fully engaged with its surroundings. The rich magenta background and matching accessories weren’t random choices – they reflect the positive energy and vibrant spirit these dogs bring to everyday life.
The red glasses serve as the central statement of the piece, symbolizing how these elegant canines view the world with both sophistication and playfulness. The coordinating polka dot bow tie adds to this theme, highlighting how these dignified dogs can simultaneously be delightfully whimsical.
This piece continues my exploration of combining technically precise oil painting techniques with subtle surrealist elements that reveal deeper emotional truths about my subjects.
Oil on canvas, Tanja Lengler 2024, 50cm x 50cm
