• Claire McCormack
Claire McCormack

I Have A Black Dog

Inspired by Matthew Johnstone’s use of a black dog as a metaphor for depression, this project explores the often-invisible weight of mental illness and the silent struggles many endure. Using the black dog as a recurring symbol, the work visualizes the emotional complexity of those living with depression, emphasizing feelings of isolation, vulnerability, and internal conflict. The illustrations are intentionally stripped back to create space for reflection, inviting viewers to engage with the emotional depth of each scene. By sparking conversation around mental health, the project aims to challenge stigma and encourage empathy.

I explore the universal experience of grief through reference imagery that is deeply personal, reflecting on fleeting moments that become cherished memories when loved ones are gone. I portray the tenderness of these brief moments through visual narratives, creating sparse, stripped back illustrations. Each illustration is accompanied by text written by Irish poet Paula Meehan. Through my practice I aim to encourage viewers to find solace in the acknowledgment of loss and its inevitable nature.