My Dog Sighs, whose real name is Paul Stone, is a renowned street artist based in Portsmouth, UK. His artistic journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of public art.

Born and raised in Portsmouth, Stone initially pursued a career in education, working as a primary school teacher. However, his passion for art never waned, and at the age of 30, he made the bold decision to leave his teaching career and pursue art full-time.

Stone’s artistic style is characterized by melancholic and often naive portraiture, combined with the use of found materials, particularly abandoned food cans. This unique approach stems from his early days as a street artist when he sought to create art without causing permanent damage to public or private property.

In 2003, Stone initiated the “Free Art Friday” project, which would become a defining aspect of his early career. Every Friday for ten years, he would leave a piece of art on the streets for passersby to find and keep. This project not only helped him develop his style but also contributed to the growth of an international movement of artists leaving their work in public spaces.

As his reputation grew, My Dog Sighs began to gain international recognition. He has had sell-out solo exhibitions in the United States, Israel, and the United Kingdom. His work has been featured in various prestigious venues and events:

1. Amsterdam Street Art Museum
2. Coventry Transport Museum
3. A 14-story building mural in Shenzhen, China
4. Bestival music festival
   
   

One of his most significant projects was “Inside,” an immersive installation in an abandoned casino in Portsmouth. This groundbreaking work, which took two years to complete, transformed a 3,000 square meter space into a world inhabited by the artist’s sculptural creatures. The exhibition, titled “Quiet Little Voices,” attracted 10,000 visitors over 16 days.

My Dog Sighs’ work has garnered attention from high-profile collectors, including Hollywood actor Matt Damon. His art often features large-scale paintings of eyes, which he describes as “windows into the soul,” often hiding intricate stories within the pupils.

Throughout his career, Stone has remained committed to using recycled materials in his art. He frequently works with oil drums, bottle caps, and tin cans, transforming these discarded items into thought-provoking pieces that question consumerism and environmental issues.

While specific awards are not mentioned in the provided sources, My Dog Sighs’ success is evident in his sold-out shows, international commissions, and growing global fanbase. He has created murals across five continents, demonstrating the universal appeal of his work.

In addition to his visual art, Stone has also ventured into writing and filmmaking. He released a book titled “INSIDE,” which documents the creation of his immersive installation. He has also been involved in film projects, including a documentary that followed the 18-month journey of creating the “Inside” exhibition.

My Dog Sighs continues to push the boundaries of street art and public installations. His work not only beautifies urban spaces but also provokes thought and emotion, inviting viewers to engage with art in unexpected places. From his humble beginnings leaving free art on the streets of Portsmouth to becoming an internationally recognized artist, My Dog Sighs exemplifies the transformative power of dedication to one’s craft and the impact of making art accessible to all.