Artists are invited to apply to design and paint a dog that will become part of the ‘Dog Walk’ fundraiser.
By Ronni Newton
Following the success of the 2021 Bear Fair – which brought an element of whimsy to the Center and Blue Back Square, and Westfarms, and raised thousands for local nonprofits – this year West Hartford will be going to the dogs.
“Dog Walk” will follow a similar concept with sponsorship support for the public art display that will also serve as a fundraiser. Local artists are being invited to apply to design and paint one of the dogs that will be on display in West Hartford this fall.
“You can feel the excitement building throughout the entire town of West Hartford,” said Tom Hickey, CEO of 20/20 Media, the organizer of the event. “After all, who doesn’t love dogs? And who doesn’t love lending a helping hand to organizations that help those in need?”
Dogs are being sponsored by businesses large and small, which choose the nonprofits they wish to support.
A stipend of $500 will be provided to artists chosen to design one of the fiberglass dogs. Each substantially-sized standing dog measures 35 inches in height, 40 inches in length, and is 9 inches wide. The stipend is intended to cover the cost of the materials needed to create the design, and Jerry’s Artarama is providing a 50% discount on supplies to Dog Walk artists.
Fiberglass dogs will be transformed by artists for Dog Walk 2022. Courtesy image
The dogs will be revealed at Blue Back Square this fall, and then will also be on display at Westfarms, providing exposure to the businesses, nonprofits, and artists alike.
Anyone interested in becoming a Dog Walk artist should email [email protected]. Please include a short bio, a description of the intended medium, and photos of previous work or a portfolio website address.
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