In the Company of Animals: William Wegman on Dogs and Photography

Artist William Wegman reflects on the bond between artists and animals: Are pets worthwhile subjects? What roles do companion animals play in a life devoted to the imagination? What do our relationships with animals reveal about ourselves?
This video was created for The Morgan Library & Museum's exhibition In the Company of Animals (www.themorgan.o..., which explores the ways in which the artists, writers, and composers have used animals to think and create.

[@Lainer1]

I remember when William wrote to me about photography after I sent a query letter to him asking about his photography. He was kind enough to send me a reply on his postcards with drawing he made and positioning of the camera and lighting. I still have those postcards. I love his work and it's one of the reasons why I photograph dogs to this day!

[@JaneFranklandTV]

I've always loved Wegman's photos. I've found them quite surreal. The first Weimaraner I saw though was when Iived in Rio as a child. That's when I fell in love with the breed. They say they're the dog with the human brain & now that I own one I understand why. She is truly a great blessing! :)

[@marben0]

anyone who has , or has lost a weimaraner . a true mate ,knows this bond

[@NODnGRIN]

As a child, in the late 1950’s, I was “raised with/by Weimaraners”...I am certain that I am a better person for it. I have had the good fortune to have known well, as constant companions, six Weimaraners, but am currently alone. My most recent Weimaraner, Gandalf DeGrey, passed 13 months ago and I have been mourning his passing since. My heart has now healed enough for another Weimaraner to enter. Now, at 65 years of age, the search begins again. Most of the time they “find” me by way of friends, family or just seeing a litter playing in a yard...they usually have HUGE litters. A dozen pups is not unusual! AND...they’re mottled, like fawns, for the first few days. Weimaraners are truely in a class all their own. I may do a bit of searching, but I feel that the pups find me. When I look at a litter of Weimaraner pups I always wait for one to “select” me, then, after about a month with me they are usually comfortable enough to “tell”me their name (to fit their personalities). Wish me luck!

[@natalie8212]

You left this comment almost a year ago, and I just found it so touching and sweet.. have you found your new buddy yet? I certainly hope you have.

[@hedylp]

as always...a great clip and insight into Weis and Wegman. Thankyou for sharing your thoughts and visuals.

[@hedylp]

good clip explaining your relationship with Weis. Anyone who owns a Wei will understand where Wegman is coming from. If one would nominate a dog closest to understanding and interacting with humans, the Wei would win. They are a most beautiful breed, but if you own one you are taking on more than 'a dog'.. When their time is up, you will be heartbroken. .enjoy their demanding attention while they co-habit with you.

[@Toolmybass]

Flo is the daughter of my dog Hemi!

[@simcoland]

We just lost our 15 year old Baby Girl Crystal 2 weeks ago. I hope life gets easier, because without her we have a large hole in our heart.

[@BuddyBoy600alt]

William Wegman use to do segments for Sesame Street.

[@ElizaNolan-r9w]

have any of ur dogs gotten hurt before while doing this