Pit Bull Flower Power
Since the 1980s, pit bulls have become the most hated and feared of all animal companions. This has led to the yearly massacre of hundreds of thousands of pit bull-type dogs in America alone. Around the world, they are equally victims of prejudices that associate them with ultra-violence and make them disposable dogs.
Through my series "Pit Bull Flower Power", I decided to photograph these dogs with flower crowns, to infuse a softer energy into their imagery. The flowers symbolize the ephemeral quality of life, reminding us that these creatures are fragile and precious. By shortening the emotional distance with the subject, my images force us reconsider these dogs who are at the mercy of humans.
All the models from the series are shelter dogs who were waiting for adoption at the time of the photograph, and were labeled as "pit bulls" by the shelter staff. I photographed about 450 dogs for this project, in about 15 different states and through 30 organizations.
With Pit Bull Flower Power, I wondered if art was a tool powerful enough, it could transform the way we perceive these dogs, and save their life. Under the hashtag #PitBullFlowerPower, the series has become a powerful campaign on social media. Many dogs have gotten adopted through my Instagram account (@SophieGamand).
Prints, merchandise and calendars are available for purchase: Check out my store for more info.
