the art of dog.
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Sculptures in the Ruff.
Florida dog lovers will have an opportunity to see The Big Dog Show, as it makes its way across the state this year. Dale Rogers is the Massachusetts artist responsible for creating the large sculptures that have been known to stop traffic. As a full time sculptor, Dale prefers to work in both stainless and Corten steel. Corten is what cities and the federal government use to make bridges. It oxidizes over time, and then seals itself. While the artist’s work is displayed in private collections across 44 states, Dale is actively expanding his reach into the public realm. “Art should be accessible to the public, and be an integral part of our everyday surroundings. I believe it is important to add art to the landscape of public venues. Art triggers the imagination, stimulates conversation, and encourages us to view the world in a different way,” said Dale. To that end, Dale has set a goal for himself to have a sculpture publicly displayed in every state by 2015. So far, his public work has been permanently installed in more than 60 communities across 19 states. Our first opportunity to view Dale’s work was in Orlando earlier this year. The Big Dogs were displayed in the outdoor Sculpture Garden, on the beautiful lakefront property of the Mennello Museum of American Art. Some of the sculptures had been adorned with red collars and customized name tags. “The sculptures with red collars were adopted by people who paid $100 in memory of someone. All of the money raised was donated to the Orlando chapter of Canine Companions for Independence and A New Beginning Pet Rescue,” said Lindy Shepherd, Public Relations Manager for the Mennello Museum of American Art.
“I strive to create thought-provoking work that is easily recognized, and will serve as a mental postcard,” said artist Dale Rogers. Photographed in the Sculpture Garden at the Mennello Museum of American Art in Orlando. Dogs on leashes are always welcome in the Sculpture Garden. For more information visit www.MennelloMuseum.com or call 407.246.4278. Photography by Anna Cooke.
18 THE NEW BARKER www.TheNewBarker.com