Renowned writer and illustrator, Henry James Garrett who has been known for his sincere humour and anthropomorphic animal characters, has created a series of dog illustrations to encourage anyone fighting for a better world. In one piece, a German Shepherd looks on with a slight smile, while its background text reads “The majority of those destined to be police dogs won’t behave as required, which gives me hope in a world that also tries to train men into violence.” In another piece, a golden retriever puppy smiles wide in front of the words, “Love human strangers, as readily as you love dog ones.”
These heartfelt pieces touch upon heavy topics such as police brutality and xenophobia in a lighter way. By portraying happy puppies and dogs along with encouraging words, the pieces act as daily pick-me-ups for activists, journalists and everyday citizens alike who are trying their best to contribute to these pressing issues. In doing so, they are giving these people some much needed mental relief so they may fight for another day. This is why the dog illustrations by Henry J. Garrett are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Reduced Inequalities and Good Health And Well-Being.
Reflecting on his German Shepherd piece, which delves into police violence, Garrett wrote about his friend’s experience of adopting a “failed” police dog. These dogs are often unable to follow commands that cause harm unto others as for hundreds of years they have instead been bred to be human companions. “I think, however, we could do with seeing more of that from men. Too few men reject the violence we were taught, and do enough to put our bodies on the wheels of the machine of gender-based violence.” Hence, the logic behind Garrett’s dog illustrations, a series of lessons from dogs and puppies around the world that can help people fight for causes they believe in.
Henry J. Garrett's dogs series uses charming illustrations of dogs paired with thought-provoking text to offer support to those fighting for social justice. By addressing heavy topics like police brutality and xenophobia through the lens of playful, innocent dogs, Garrett provides a sense of hope and emotional relief to activists and everyday citizens committed to making a positive impact. His pieces remind audiences that small acts of kindness, compassion and resistance can contribute to a larger change. This gentle encouragement is why Garrett’s work offers solace and motivation to keep pushing for a better world.
Find out more about dog illustrations and other pieces by Henry J. Garrett on his website www.henryjgarrett.com or Instagram @henryjgarrett.