Dogs II 2007

Carmen Delaco made 'Dogs II' using oil paint, a medium that allows for layering and blending. Notice how Delaco’s technique uses the fluidity of oil paint to capture the raw energy of the animals. The gestural brushstrokes are not just about depicting the dogs, but about the act of painting itself. Oil paint has a long and complicated history - for centuries, it was the go-to medium for European masters, prized for its versatility and the rich colors it can produce. Delaco’s expressionist approach and the visible brushwork bring a sense of immediacy to the piece. This is a far cry from the smooth, almost invisible brushwork that was so valued in earlier academic painting. The rough, textured surface emphasizes the physical act of creation, almost as if the artist’s own struggle is mirrored in the fray of the canines. Ultimately, considering the processes and materials used in 'Dogs II' helps us to see how Delaco engages with both the traditions of painting and the expression of intense emotion. It’s a reminder that every artistic choice, from the type of paint used to the way it’s applied, contributes to the overall meaning of the work.