"Say Cheese!"

Item 9 of 189 in 2026 Artists' Choice
"Say Cheese!" by Stacey Barge
 
Title:
Say Cheese!
Artist:
Stacey Barge
Size:
7" x 10"
Medium:
Colour Pencil on Pastelmat
Price:
CAN$900.00
Available for Sale
Description:
This piece is based on a photograph I took during a quiet walk, when I was drawn to a woman and her dog sharing an unguarded, joyful moment together. I asked if I could take the photo, and what began as a simple request turned into a conversation and the start of a friendship.

The image captures the ease of their relationship; her laughter mid-selfie and the dog leaning forward with the same calm confidence, completely at home by her side. Their closeness speaks to deep trust and companionship, a bond built through shared routines, walks, and moments that don’t need to be staged to be meaningful.

Soft autumn tones and a gently blurred background keep the focus on connection rather than place, while the detailed textures of fur and fabric ground the scene in reality. The dog is not simply beside her, but clearly part of her world.

This piece reflects how relationships between people, between humans and animals can be quietly powerful, and how noticing those moments can turn a passing encounter into something lasting.