An exhibition dedicated to dogs, showcasing various forms of art including paintings, textiles, and pottery, has opened in Norfolk.
‘Woof: A Celebration of Dogs’ at Lynn Museum delves into the multifaceted roles dogs have played in human society, from beloved pets to industrious workers.
The exhibition spans a significant historical timeline, featuring pieces from medieval pottery to contemporary fine art. Notably, the collection includes works by renowned artists such as Sir Edwin Landseer, Andy Warhol, and David Hockney.
Curator Dayna Woolbright, who is passionate about dogs, spearheaded this project. Among the highlights is an oil painting titled ‘The White Dog’ by Vivian Crome, completed in 1883.
The exhibition isn’t limited to modern art. It boasts historical artefacts like a Roman coin illustrating the legend of Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, who were said to be raised by a she-wolf.
Additionally, a gold Roman ring representing the hero Meleager and his dog is on display. These items provide a fascinating glimpse into the ancient relationship between humans and dogs.
One of the more unusual exhibits is a coat made from St Bernard dog hair. The coat was crafted in the 1930s by a gentleman who meticulously collected the hair during daily grooming sessions.
Curator Woolbright explains, ‘The coat was then woven into cloth and tailored in Norwich.’ This item showcases early examples of sustainability and resourcefulness.
Alongside the coat, there are other textile works featuring dog hair, demonstrating the diverse applications of this unique material in historical contexts.
The Kennel Club has also contributed significantly to the exhibition. One of the most striking pieces is an original painting of the Toy Bulldog breed, which became extinct around the time of the First World War.
Luisa Foster, the art collection curator at The Kennel Club, expressed her delight in supporting the exhibition, stating, ‘We look forward to seeing this diverse collection come to life.’
The tradition of featuring dogs in portraits dates back centuries. One such example in the exhibition is an oil painting from 1650 depicting Arthur Young and Mrs John Tomlinson with their loyal canine companion.
These portraits underline the historical significance of dogs, symbolising loyalty, companionship, and status within society.
The inclusion of such artworks highlights the enduring bond between humans and their four-legged friends.
The exhibition, running until June 2025, is expected to attract numerous visitors, particularly families. However, visitors are kindly reminded that only assistance dogs are permitted inside the museum.
Curator Woolbright emphasized the exhibit’s family-friendly nature, hoping it will appeal to dog enthusiasts of all ages. The museum aims to provide an educational yet enjoyable experience for everyone.
Among the myriad exhibits, some standout items include medieval pottery, Roman jewellery, and fine art masterpieces. Each piece tells a unique story about the role dogs have played throughout history.
The ‘Woof: A Celebration of Dogs’ exhibition at Lynn Museum successfully highlights the important roles dogs have played in both art and history.
By bringing together a diverse collection of artefacts and artworks, the exhibition offers visitors a comprehensive and engaging look at our canine companions through the ages.
