A Friend in Need Reinterpreted

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Thursday Night Book Club by Mark Sowa

I’ve often thought C.M. Coolidge’s “A Friend in Need” was ripe for parody.  That’s why I got a kick out of Mark Sowa’s reinterpretation of it entitled “Thursday night Book Club” or “Dogs Reading Books.”

Mark says his version was inspired by thinking “about friends gathered together, and what better iconic image to use than ‘A Friend In Need’ by C.M. Coolidge?  Although the classic original is instantly recognizable, people usually know it as simply ‘Dogs Playing Poker’, and hardly anyone knows who the artist is.  Our interpretation pays homage to Mr. Coolidge, while at the same time ‘uplifting’ the casual pursuits of its participants.  What could be more politically correct?”

He’s right.  No smoking, drinking, gambling, or cheating.  But still lots of fun.

Mark’s version is available at his Owl Square Press which specializes in bookish prints.  I think he has a new future in bookish dog prints too.

And here’s the original (available at Amazon
) for comparison:

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A Friend in Need by C. M. Coolidge

Watch a video of the reinterpretation:

A new classic is born!

Comments

4 responses to “A Friend in Need Reinterpreted”

  1. Evelyn Morris Hecht Avatar

    It’s great but somehow I miss the English Bulldog’s cigar!

  2. elizabeth Avatar

    For some reason, this has triggered a memory I have of “discovering” a dirty version of this in my father’s closet. I can’t quite remember but were all the dogs peeing standing up? Anyway, I like the book-reading dogs better!

  3. Hoyden Avatar
    Hoyden

    Heh! Love Thursday Night Book club ๐Ÿ™‚ Dogs & Books, two of my most favorite things ever.

  4. dogs playing poker Avatar

    “Dogs playing poker” is an amazing picture! Reminds me about the popular pastime of men. A while ago ordered an oil reproduction of this painting to hang in my dad’s office. Just love it!

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