by Antonino La vela

Artwork Description

The Chinese Dog - Yulin Dog Meat Festival Celebration

50.0 x 70.0 cm

My painting "The Chinese Dog," a vivid 50 x 70 cm canvas rendered in acrylic colors, is a deliberate, provocative statement against the harsh treatment of dogs, particularly focusing on their mistreatment in parts of China, including during events like Yulin Dog Meat Festival. The festival, which many of us view with grave concern, involves practices that starkly contrast with the festive connotation its name might imply, especially from the standpoint of the dogs. My artwork seeks to challenge and criticize the dissonance between the supposed celebration and the blatant cruelty involved. The piece itself employs a palette of bright, almost violent colors arranged into chaotic, abstract forms that suggest turmoil and distress—symbols of the turmoil endured by the animals. This choice of style and composition aims to mirror the chaotic and often unseen suffering these animals endure, pulling the viewer into a narrative that is both uncomfortable and compelling. The sharp contrasts and intense hues reflect the stark reality of the situation, emphasizing the urgent need for change in these cultural practices. In using acrylics, I chose a medium that allows for bold, unapologetic expressions of color and texture, underscoring the immediacy and importance of the issue. Acrylic paint, known for its versatility and vibrant color retention, helps convey the emotional intensity needed to make a strong statement against such deep-rooted cultural practices. The size of the canvas also plays a critical role, as its large dimensions command attention, making it an imposing force that confronts the viewer head-on with its message. This artwork is not just a visual endeavor; it's a socio-political statement, a piece of advocacy aiming to draw international attention to the plight of these animals. Through "The Chinese Dog," I aim to provoke thought, evoke empathy, and encourage a dialogue about the ethical treatment of animals across cultural boundaries. The painting challenges viewers to reconsider the morality of longstanding traditions, questioning whether cultural heritage can or should be preserved at the expense of animal welfare. Moreover, by incorporating elements that might be seen in traditional Chinese art, such as the use of bold lines and symbolic color choices, I bridge the gap between critique and respect for cultural elements, all the while firmly advocating for a reconsideration of practices that harm living beings. It's an invitation to viewers, particularly those who participate in or are familiar with such cultural practices, to reflect on the possibility of cultural evolution that respects both heritage and animal rights. "The Chinese Dog" is a call to action, crafted to stir the consciences of its audience, urging them to look beyond the surface of cultural festivities and see the underlying issues that need addressing. In presenting this piece, I hope not only to highlight the suffering that often goes unnoticed but also to inspire a movement towards more humane practices that honor the dignity of all living creatures.

Artwork Details

Medium: Painting Acrylic

Genre: Animals