The American Kennel Club’s breeding standards, glorified through dog shows, are a death sentence for many breeds. This editorial illustration spotlights the suffering caused by these standards- a cruelty now challenged by PETA’s lawsuit. Art Direction: Phivi Spyridonos Special Thanks: Stephen Gardner and B.C. Maxwell
Challenge
Most articles about animal welfare rely heavily on photographs to convey their message. For this project, I wanted to explore how illustration can go beyond documentation and deliver a more powerful, conceptual impact. This editorial piece, created as a personal initiative, focuses on the American Kennel Club’s breeding standards—glorified in dog shows—that cause immense suffering for many dogs. With PETA now suing the AKC, the illustration aims to spotlight the cruelty hidden behind the spectacle of “perfection.”
Solution
My strength lies in conceptual illustration, where I distill complex issues into bold, striking visuals that speak instantly to the viewer. Unlike photography, which often shows what is there, illustration can highlight what it means—allowing me to emphasize the contradiction between glamour and suffering at the heart of this issue. By blending strong symbolism with editorial clarity, I created an image that not only informs but also provokes reflection, making the message more immediate and impactful.
