Ball Boy 

Lucia Heffernan's contemporary painting captures a dog in a moment of pure joy, surrounded by floating tennis balls. The balls, symbols of play and boundless energy, are scattered like stars in the animal's personal cosmos. This composition brings to mind earlier depictions of dogs, such as those seen in classical hunting scenes, where dogs symbolize loyalty and instinct, traits now often associated with domestic companionship. Yet, unlike the composed and stoic hounds of past eras, Heffernan’s dog embodies unrestrained emotion. The open mouth and gleeful eyes evoke a raw, almost primal happiness. It’s a reminder of how certain archetypal images transcend time. We recognize the echo of ancient hunting dogs in this modern canine, both driven by instincts and desires. This interplay reflects the cyclical return of images, resonating with emotional power across centuries.