Cynocephalize

Cynocephalize is a body of work that investigates the documented phenomenon of dog headed figures throughout history. Researching and reimagining classical appearances of Cynocephali — dog headed figures — in Eastern organized religion and historical accounts. Cynocephaly is a literal translation from the Greek word kynokephaloi, kyno meaning “dog” and kephalē meaning “head”.

I am analyzing and fabricating scientific observations, and weaving these mythological creatures into the contemporary world. Using the language of anatomy and natural history illustrations, my work blurs the lines between historical account and myth, straddling the proverbial fence with one foot in reality and the other in folklore. My fascination with this subject matter stems from an appreciation of both zoology and cryptozoology, and the methods that they both employ.

Part of my body of work lies in history, creating fictional artifacts using traditional styles and methods such as icon painting and printmaking. Some of it lies in scientific observation, recreating early anatomical and skeletal illustrations and presenting these works as factual documentation. As well as reimagining the visual art landscape over the last hundred years as if the dog headed folks were here all along, using collages, painting, and false advertisements, weaving the myth into contemporary arts and culture. Cynocephali picks up where medieval folklore left off and fabricates a new present existence. Myth becomes a reality.