The iconic American images of dogs and firehouses are etched into our psyches and writ large in our lore.  Back when trucks were horse-drawn, dogs would run alongside, barking to clear the pathways and calm the horses while the fires raged.

Mochi’s work is no less heroic.

Loyal and loving, she is clear in her role.  She’ll wait while the cats are fed, the dishes are cleaned and the day winds down.  Now her job begins.  No matter how good or hard the day was, her endless capacity for empathy will celebrate your wins and dissipate the pain.  She’ll mirror back the best part of you while giving life to your better angels.

About the piece:

The first collaged layer is from vintage children’s books exalting stories of gallant firefighters, their courageous dogs, and personified engines.  Warm paints and oil pastel markers radiate around and through Mochi’s blue-black fur.  The warm and calming colors represent her dauntless devotion.  The crowning glow pulls you in and the old book cover spin on the top pulls the story together.  Not much had to be done to accentuate her eyes as they tell their own story.