Philadelphia artist Emily White has unveiled a new mural titled "Can I Paint That Dog" in Northern Liberties, celebrating beloved neighborhood pets. Commissioned by the Northern Liberties Business Improvement District, the mural features 10 dogs and one anonymous guinea pig selected from 340 submissions, many from local residents—including one entry submitted secretly by White’s dentist.
Known for her combination of realism and retro design elements, White was inspired by her own memories walking her dog Mason at Orianna Hill Dog Park, the site of a celebratory "yappy hour" following the mural's unveiling. White, a Boston transplant and former Mural Arts intern who now runs White Knuckle Painting, completed the artwork in several intensive 12-hour sessions during the summer.
Located at 901 N. 3rd Street next to Liberty Lands Park, the mural adds to Philadelphia’s scant portfolio of dog-themed artworks and underscores the area's love of pets with a playful touch.
The unveiling event was marked by a "yappy hour" at Orianna Hill Dog Park, where community members gathered to celebrate the new addition to their neighborhood. The mural not only beautifies the area but also fosters a sense of community among pet owners and residents alike.
This initiative highlights the growing trend of incorporating pet culture into urban art, reflecting the deep bond between residents and their animal companions. As cities continue to embrace pet-friendly initiatives, murals like "Can I Paint That Dog" serve as a testament to the joy and companionship that pets bring to urban life.
