An anonymous artist, who we’ll call Barksy, has been leaving portraits of canines painted on stones at Inter-River Park, a popular dog-walking spot, for humans and their furry companions to find.
While it’s unclear when the animal art first appeared, some who regularly walk in the area say discovering the colourful stones in unexpected places, nestled in tree trunks, for example, brightens their day.
The Facebook group Inter-River Dogs and Their People has been abuzz lately with dog walkers posting their rock art finds.
“There are several places,” posted Laura Jackson. “And I’m sure we haven’t found them all. Main trail, west side of creek between footbridge and Boy Scout field area – the German shepherd is there and the hairless dog. The trail behind the fence on the same side – enter by garbage can above swimming area – I found the moose, red heeler and the puli.”
It appears the artist is trying to represent as many dog breeds as they can and has inadvertently or purposely created a game in the process.
“My mission now is to find them all,” says Jackson, who exercises with her Australian shepherds at Inter-River.
Fellow Inter-River regular Gail Hirst says, “We’ll always have our memories of our delightful finds. I can only imagine the grins and giggles the artist enjoys as these unique gifts are received and enjoyed.”
Posts on the Facebook page from other Inter-River Park users exude excitement over the art in the forest.
“ Lots of painted stone sightings today!”
“This is the biggest one yet.”
“I love finding these little pieces of art on our walks. Thank you to the artist!”
Some of the stones have been moved, according to accounts on the Facebook page. The rocks should be admired only and not collected, stress the dog art defenders, who can’t get enough of it.
“Whoever you are that’s doing them, keep ‘em coming.”
