Ann DeVito loves dogs. So much so that she recently had a book come out called Dog Love, published by Penguin Books, that features different breeds of dogs. It was with great pleasure that I received this delightful book and a surprise piece of art for my very own of the Sizzle sisters! It inspired me to reach out to this wonderful artist and toss her names of a few of my favorite Instagram accounts that highlight dogs, to inspire some new illustrations!
Tell me about your artwork.
I grew up loving to draw, always drawing and painting. I worked as a graphic/web designer for years, but always drawing and painting. When I started my blog, I disciplined myself to draw daily. My works are my diary, things I enjoy... pop culture, fashion, my family, dogs, Sundays... life.
What was your fascination with dogs?
Dogs evoke happiness and love unconditionally. They are soulful... and cute.
How did you get involved with your current book?
My kids, Quinny 10 and Ricky 8, and I drew dogs from the AKC Complete Dog Book. Everyday. Different breeds. Posting daily, eventually compiling a stack of drawings. Initially, I pitched Dog Love as a kids book, but Penguin thought the book should appeal to ALL dog lovers, young and old! To celebrate the book, we went to the 2015 Westminster Dog Show - seated next to Miss P's (Best In Show Beagle) owner! Classic law of attraction.
How do your kids feel about dogs and what part did they play in the book?
My kids love dogs! They are able to distinguish most breeds with ease. Their drawings are the end pages of Dog Love... that's the page they sign. They still frequently draw with me, you can see their work on Instagram -- @anndevito.
What's the next project?
Building a store with Society6. Dog Love merchandise is available now. Prints, pillows, totes and mugs. More to come! View the other People's Dogs Series here. One thing I loved about making Dog Love, aside from drawing, was the teaching/learning process. I would like to draw, teach and learn food. Food Love. Or cats. Art. Everyday.