Prints With A Purpose: Sophie Gamand’s Shelter Dog Art

July 29, 2021 Jessica Johnson 0

Sophie Gamand creates dog art with a purpose. And in honor of National Mutt Day on July 31, it felt like the perfect time to highlight her important mission.

The French photographer, based in New York City, captures a new perspective of pups in need through her endearing dog photography. From wet shelter dogs at the groomer to pit bulls in flower crowns awaiting their forever homes, she uses her lens to paint canines in the light they deserve. It’s no surprise both her advocacy and creativity has gained international praise.

“*My art aims to give a presence and a voice to dogs in need … Every project I create is about raising awareness of their fate.” —Sophie Gamand*

Working with animal shelters across the country, Sophie Gamand portrays the sweetness and charm of neglected and abused dogs. With a penchant for pit bulls, who continue to face harmful stereotypes, she depicts the gentle side of the misunderstood breed. Combining two of our favorite things — art and dogs — Sophie plays a powerful role in increasing dog adoptions all over the U.S. while shifting the narrative on shelter dogs worldwide.

At iCanvas, we love witnessing the power that comes with art. Which is why we’re proud to partner with artists like Sophie Gamand who harness their power to create prints with a purpose. Keep scrolling to get to know more about the human behind the mission.

Tell us about the mission behind your art.

My art aims to give a presence and a voice to dogs in need. Most of my models are shelter dogs looking for adoption, and every project I create is about raising awareness of their fate, changing the perception around these dogs, educating the public, and raising money for nonprofit rescue organizations that help these dogs.

Why is amplifying that message close to your heart?

I think art is the most powerful tool we have to make change in the world. I find animals to be so vulnerable. They are at the mercy of humans. Lending them my voice is a privilege.

Why do you think art is an important tool to spread this message?

With one image, in a split second, we can transform the world by opening people’s minds. There is something magical that happens when someone connects with artwork. It cracks open their view of the world. I think artists have a huge responsibility and must share their view of the world. They have the ability to peek behind the curtain in ways most people can’t.

Can you share some reactions or outcomes that have fueled your commitment to this mission?

A lot of my dog models have been adopted thanks to my portraits. Sometimes, after eight years waiting at a shelter. I receive messages from people all around the world, who tell me they’ve decided to adopt instead of buying a dog after seeing my work, or are giving a chance to a pit bull thanks to my Pit Bull Flower Power work. It’s quite amazing to hear! When you can feel your work making a difference, it makes all the heartache worth it. Working in animal rescue is tough, and creating meaningful art about life and death can take a toll on you. So these little victories keep me afloat.

How do you recommend individuals get involved and make their own impact in this area?

Everyone has ideas! But not enough people take action with their ideas. The hardest step is always the first one. So if someone is passionate about a cause or feels vested with a mission, they should take the first step. Make that painting, take that photo, write that letter. Whatever your medium of expression or skills are, use them, whatever cause you feel passionate about, get to work! Do good, change the world!

Where do you hope to take your art or advocacy next?

I’m hoping to work with humans more. After a decade working with shelter dogs, I know the fate of humans and animals are so intertwined. I’d love to help vulnerable humans next. I also want to travel the world photographing dogs from all over!

In addition to spreading awareness of this mission, what do you hope to make people feel with your art?

I want them to always question their perception and beliefs. What if we lived life knowing we don’t know anything? Once you accept that, it’s incredible how much more open you become to the world, its people and animals. And being open is the key to change. We have so much healing to do as people, with each other and with our planet. It starts with humility and openness.

Sophie’s passion for using her creative talent to make an impact warms our hearts. Not to mention, she’s a prime example of the power that comes with art. Keep scrolling to check out the utter cuteness Sophie Gamand captures while creating prints with a purpose.