Stephen Huneck

A self-taught artist, woodcarver, and sculptor, Stephen Huneck’s work celebrates the spiritual connection between people and dogs. After suffering from a devastating fall in 1994, he lay unconscious in a coma for two months. Immediately after waking up, he began work on a series of woodcuts of his lab, Sally, which became the basis for his internationally renowned prints and children’s books.

I had the great pleasure of meeting Stephen and his wife, Gwen, a few years ago. I had reached out to him as both an editor and a fan. I wanted to know if he was interested in writing an illustrated memoir. During a trip to New York in 2007, Stephen and Gwen met me for dinner at a small Italian restaurant near their hotel. We discussed everything dog-related, and they invited me to stay with them and visit their Dog Chapel in Vermont. Stephen even drew an impromptu illustration based on a photo on my iPhone.

Unfortunately, the book never materialized, but our dinner was unforgettable. Their kindness, sense of humor and love for dogs touched my heart. Sadly, Stephen’s journey as an artist ended as tragically as it began. I was devastated to hear of his death earlier this year, and think of him when I pass the print that hangs on my wall. Stephen’s art is still for sale, and will likely become even more valuable. His spirit lives on in the playful images he created, and the lessons learned from the wisdom of dogs. As is posted in front of the Dog Chapel: “Welcome: All Creeds, All Breeds. No Dogmas Allowed.”