“This is a portrait of Bailey which a friend of mine asked me to paint for her sister after Bailey died. I was happy to do it but the photo I was given had him sitting on a bright blue and white towel which was all bunched up around his nether regions. Knowing that this would become the focal point of the painting I scoured the internet for pictures of dogs sitting upright so I could see exactly where his hidden winkie would be situated. No luck there, unfortunately. Then I remembered that my brother in S .Africa had two big dogs so I sent out a plea for help. When it arrived eventually I added a proud member to Bailey and called my friend to tell her the portrait was ready for delivery.
She came but, instead of pleasure, her face looked vaguely troubled…..”Joy” said she “Bailey is a female!” “No problem” said I and, without missing a beat, out came the paints and the proud member was replaced by smooth modesty. Bailey had her gender restored- and the painting was on its way to remind my friend’s sister of Bailey’s undying love forevermore.”
