The connection between humans and dogs dates back tens of thousands of years, leaving an enduring imprint on art and culture. Dating back to ancient Greek ceramics and Aztec sculptures, dogs have played a quiet yet profound role in art history and pop culture, shaping an understanding of the world around us. This unique bond now takes center stage at Peter Fetterman Gallery in a photography exhibition fittingly titled Woof Woof, celebrating the timeless companionship between people and canines.
The show traces this link from the early 20th century to today, offering a tender exploration of loyalty, love and life through the lens of around 30 photographers. On view are Sid Avery’s candid shots of Audrey Hepburn and her Yorkshire Terrier, Mr. Famous, along with Pentti Sammallahti’s soft moments of domestic solace. Additional standouts include Kristoffer Albrecht’s lake-side Schnauzer, gazing into the distance as though pondering a journey, and dynamic portraits by John Divola, capturing his dog in joyous motion.
Through a striking showcase of historic and contemporary images, Woof Woof explores a poignant emotional depth, redirecting the gaze beyond the human to foster a more compassionate view our shared world. Powerfully summed in the words of featured photographer Elliott Erwitt, “Love rarely touches the reasoning parts of the brain. It touches the dreamy parts, the devoted parts — it touches the parts we sometimes call the heart. For many thousands of years, it’s there that our dogs have lived.”
The exhibition is now on view at Peter Fetterman Gallery in Santa Monica through March 1, 2025.
Peter Fetterman Gallery
Bergamot Station
2525 Michigan Ave., Gallery A1
Santa Monica, California 90404
