Yes, New York City does go a little dog-crazy in anticipation of the annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. There are a number of events leading up to the show including an exhibition, auction and dog-friendly fundraising brunch in support of the American Kennel Club Humane Fund. The Metropolitan Museum of Art also houses a year-round collection of dog-centric paintings, sculptures, drawings and other works from across the millennia.

William Secord Gallery NYC: ‘The Dog in Art’

February 11th to March 19th, 2016

29 West 15th Street 4th Floor
New York, NY 10011 (Between 5th and 6th Avenues)
Special Westminster Hours: February 11 to 17th, 10:00am to 5:00pm. Otherwise, by appointment.

William Secord is the world authority on the nineteenth century dog painting, the founding director of The Dog Museum of America, and a skilled and prolific author who explores the representation of the dog from its origins to modern times.

The William Secord Gallery, established in 1990, is the only one of its kind in North America, specializing in the sale of fine nineteenth and twentieth century dog and animal paintings. The gallery also represents contemporary portrait artists Christine Merrill, Pamela Dennis Hall and Liza Todd Tivey. It has become a popular destination for those interested in original dog paintings, works on paper, sculpture, scholarly works and the commissioning of a pet portrait.

Bonhams’ Auction NYC: ‘Dogs in Show and Field: The Fine Art Sale’

February 17th, 2016

80 Madison Avenue
New York NY 10022
Tel: +1 212 644 9001
info.us@bonhams.com

Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Preview days: 12.00pm – 5.00pm (please check as they are subject to change)

From the website:
“Bonhams is proud to have led the market in canine paintings and works of art for over 30 years. ‘Dogs in Show and Field: The Fine Art Sale’ is an annual auction held in our sales room in the heart of Manhattan every February to coincide with the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. The sale consistently attracts a unique gathering of elite breeders and owners from both sides of the Atlantic, as well as international collectors of canine art and memorabilia. With unparalleled specialist experience in this niche market, the enduring appeal of man’s best friend continues to attract the finest dog-related art to this fun and record breaking sale.”

Barkfest at Bonhams NYC
Sunday, February 14th, 2016 10:00am – 12:00pm
www.bonhams.com

Bonham’s annual Barkfest event serves two purposes: It provides a preview of their ‘Dogs in Show and Field: The Fine Art Sale’ and is a fundraising brunch for the American Kennel Club (AKC) Humane Fund, which provides grants to pet-friendly domestic violence shelters and breed rescue organizations throughout the country. Human AND canine companions are welcome at the brunch, which is held at Bonhams’ galleries in the IBM building on Madison Avenue between 56th and 57th Street.

Guests will receive complimentary catalogs and goodie bags with assorted canine treats.

Admission is a $50 donation to the AKC Humane Fund (with reservations), or $60 at the door.

To reserve a space, please RSVP with AKC at +1 (212) 696 8306 or akchumanefund@akc.org

The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Permanent Collection
Open year round; check website for hours

1000 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10028
www.metmuseum.org

Explore the Met’s treasure trove of dog-related art in person or online through their searchable database. Almost 2,000 pieces can be found throughout their collections, about 350 of which are currently on display.

The museum also produced an excellent companion book, The Artful Dog: Canines from The Metropolitan Museum of Art, which is a useful accompaniment to a visit and an excellent gift for any dog-lover.

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Located in the posh Upper East Side, The Pierre offers old-fashioned, white glove service with amenities designed to provide guests with an unparalleled luxury experience. With a staff-to-guest ratio of 3:1, The Pierre continues to push the envelope in luxury accommodations. Originally constructed in 1930, The Pierre is the US flagship of Taj Hotels. Celebrating over 80 years in business, The Pierre is an integral part of Manhattan’s history.

With soundproof windows and a quiet Murray Hill location, The Roger New York is a calm retreat in the midst of one of the world’s busiest cities. The Roger New York has a classic New York feel mixed with a residential vibe. This boutique property has an eco-friendly attitude and offers beautiful, terraced guestrooms that boast impressive Empire State Building views. These landscaped terraces provide an ideal spot for guests to relax with a glass of wine in the evening and enjoy the city views.

Located at the corner of 77th and Madison Ave. since 1927, from the outside The Mark appears to be a beautiful heritage hotel. But step through the doors and you’ll be amazed by the contemporary chic of the interior. Rooms feature custom-made beds, Italian linens, specially chosen furniture, and incredible finishing. And with helpful staff and plenty of nearby shopping, dining and dancing, you’ll be at the heart of it all.

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