Paul Lask andAnna Bolm

Dogs of Chile

Chicago Center for Literature and PhotographyPhotographer Feature

February 1, 2013

Location: Various cities throughout Chile

Paul and I have been active artists in Chicago since 2000, him as a musician myself as a student of sculpture. I

shoot with an old Canon DSLR. At this point we are both working in education, while Paul continues in music and

fiction writing, and I in varying mediums.

Tell us a little about how this photo series came about in the first place.

Frightened by convention, we fled for South America shortly after marrying. Not knowing the language left us to our own devices for companions, and our imaginations led us to the dogs. The dogs occupied our thoughts, our conversations often leading to what they were doing or who we saw that day.

“Did you see Tenderfoot today?” I would ask Paul.

“Yeah, I saw him by the panaderia earlier but Whale wasn’t with him, I wonder if they’re fighting.”

In general, are these dogs friendly or hostile? Do the urban surroundings keep them domesticated, or is there a feral touch to them?

Generally, the dogs are in good spirits. We did hear about a girl in Patagonia who was nearly bitten by a fox she was trying to pet. We don’t recommend petting wild animals.

In general, are these dogs friendly or hostile? Do the urban surroundings keep them domesticated, or is there a feral touch to them?

Generally, the dogs are in good spirits. We did hear about a girl in Patagonia who was nearly bitten by a fox she was trying to pet. We don’t recommend petting wild animals.

What does the local population think of these dogs?

We’ve seen a wide range of reactions but for the most part we see indifference or love. It’s common to see food and water bowls set out

for them, or even leftovers from restaurants, a doggie bag if you will.

Could any of them be considered traditional pets?

Not traditional. These dogs love their independence and show off to the fenced dogs, sending them into a barking frenzy. The love they

receive from the community makes them feel more like public pets.

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