From cattle dogs to lap dogs, divine felines to the black cats of superstition, Cats & Dogs explores humanity’s deep connection to these animals through more than 250 works of art and design.
Celebrate the opening of the exhibition with NGV curators as they introduce a selection of their favourite works and share the stories they tell – taking us on a journey from ancient history to the present day to explore the global and enduring appeal of these beloved companion animals across time and cultures.
Speakers
Imogen Mallia-Vajan on Briton Rivière’s Deer stealers pursued by sleuth hounds.
Imogen Mallia-Vajan is Curatorial Project Officer of International Decorative Arts and Design at the National Gallery of Victoria.
Laurie Benson on Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen’s Poster for the Company of the Black Cat.
Laurie Benson is Curator of International Art at the National Gallery of Victoria.
Anna Honan on Atong Atem’s Maria of Mars.
Anna Honan is Curatorial Project Officer of Contemporary Art, Design and Architecture at the National Gallery of Victoria.
Maria Quirk on Joseph Highmore’s Susanna Highmore.
Maria Quirk is Curator of Collections and Research at the National Gallery of Victoria.
Michael Gentle on Nura Rupert’s Papa tjuta Tjukurpa (Camp dogs story) and Pitcha Makin Fellas Aboriginal dog.
Michael Gentle is Curator, Australian and First Nations Art at the National Gallery of Victoria.
After exploring the exhibition, continue celebrating with Cats and Dogs: Curators in Conversation at 1pm.
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