08/08/2024
American artist William Wegman has a new solo exhibition up at Fosun Foundation, next to The Bund Financial Center (BFC), showcasing his well-known series of 20x24 Polaroids and digital dog portraits. On display at “Favorite Models” are 60 large-format prints of his prized Weimaraners, dressed up and creatively styled, and often in charmingly anthropomorphic poses.
Dog lovers, previously unfamiliar with his work, will be enthralled by this series of images – now spanning work from multiple decades, as the artist explores the unique relationship between dogs and their human owners. With each portrait, his beloved dogs are transformed into characters, objects, or become a part of an artfully arranged tableaux.
Graphically appealing and immensely likable, these highly detailed large-format prints are best viewed in person. At the end of the exhibit, there is a 12 minute documentary of Wegman discussing his work and process, although you can also find plenty of artist profile videos about William Wegman’s work online. I particularly liked watching his process and getting to see his storeroom of dog props, costumes and various doodads that he accumulated over the years.
“Favorite Models” is a pet-friendly exhibition if you wish to bring your furry companion, although you may be asked to show proof of vaccination or a dog license. At the moment at BFC, there is quite a bit of inflatable dog-themed public art outside – and the Fosun Foundation, itself a now-iconic architectural structure with its shape-shifting facade, is also worth a visit for those who have never been. Perhaps make an afternoon of it with your fur baby.
