By DARLA MCCAMMON

Lakeland Arts Association

This unusual canvas was actually a dinner plate and the story behind this dog portrait on the dinner plate is quite a tale (pun intended)!  Pablo Picasso was known as a vivid character and his work has always been a subject of controversy with some saying he was a genius and others vowing it belonged in the trash heap.  Spanish by birth, he spent most of his adult life in France. Unlike most artists Picasso became very wealthy during his life owning many properties.  Married and divorced numerous times he also produced many children, some of whom he had little or no relationship.

Picasso was well-known for his dalliances with the women who modeled for him, but not so well-known was his six year loyalty and love for a dog he kidnapped!  Back in 1957 a Life magazine photographer named David D. Duncan happened to visit Picasso’s home for an article and a photo shoot on behalf of the magazine.  Duncan brought along his lovable little Dachshund puppy named Lump.  Picasso immediately became fascinated with the long body and dangling ears of Lump.  Spontaneously grabbing a dinner plate Picasso immediately drew the essence of the little dog.  The dog became a fixture in the home as the work progressed on the featured article.  Time passed and as the crew prepared to depart, they later repeated to others Picasso’s words to the photographer: “You will leave him, of course?”

Lump became a celebrity as Picasso featured the dog in 15 paintings and his original owner Duncan published a book later about the dog and Picasso.  Some would say there was a definite affinity between the dog and the artist as they died within ten days of each other in 1973.

Dachshunds have a reputation for a good long lifespan and Lump was no exception.  This breed is considered a Hound Dog, originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers.  Dachs (means badger) hund (means dog). Most are about 9 to 10 inches at the shoulder.  These pets are affectionate with their families, very kid friendly and intelligent and usually  easy to train.  An adult Dachshund weighs 16 to 32 pounds.  These dogs are sought after by many and remain high on the most requested list at the Animal Welfare League..

Next week:  another pet portrait.

Upcoming and Current Events: 

• Lakeland Art Association Spring Show May 1, at 302 E. Winona Ave. Warsaw. www.lakelandartassociation.org
• Program by Don Swartzentruber May 22, “What judges look for when judging Art”. At LAA and above address. 7 p.m..

For more information on topics in this column, please contact Darla McCammon at [email protected] or (574) 527-4044. Website is darlamc.com.