Art of the Dog: Dawn Secord: Painting of Killian

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

Painting of Killian - an Irish Setter

I had known Killian since he was a pup. I watched him mature into a beautiful dog who graced the show ring as well as excel into a highly respected dog in the field. I watched his muzzle develop the gray hairs that disclosed he is older than young. While we don't want to think about our dogs aging, we don't really want to see it either. The whiter faces on the Irish Setter are so heartwarming. They also make us think of time....the dreaded time that passes like a vaper. We don't see it but yet we do.

After Killian passed, When Killian's owner asked for a painting of Killian as a gift for his wife (Killian's human mom) I was thrilled. For his painting, I used a number of photos to assist in the project. There was a primary reference photo which showed his lovely head. It was a bit shadowed so other photos were of paramount assistance with his coat and eye coloring. It was an honor to paint him.

I asked Jen if she would share a little bit about Killian. This is what she said:

Killian was an incredible hunting dog. We know that this is what the Irish setter is bred to do and Killian did it with style and perfection.

We still think of him when we are with dogs in the field and a bird is “there somewhere” but the other dogs can’t find it.

“Send Killian, he will !”

Killian at home was the rollicking, sweet, gentle Irish we all talk of as being the best characteristics of the breed. Killian was sensitive; not in a timid way but in his connections. He knew what each of the family members (humans and animals) wanted/needed, and was generous enough to give his best to all of us!

This painting is a very special gift to me. CH Roclyn Killians Red MHA,

With me always!🐾❤️

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