Meet Pongo, Our Chief Executive Dog

Update: This article isn't really about art. It's about dogs. Yes, the founders were dog people, and many of our students were too. This was written when we had our physical art studio in Markham, serving York Region. Since May of 2020, Winged Canvas transformed into an online art school, and continues to operate virtually, serving art nerds around the world.

Now, for a nostalgic glimpse inside the brick-and-mortar studio...

When you visited Winged Canvas before 2020, a small, affectionate, and funny little dog might have greeted you at the door. Her name is Pongo and she is our Chief Executive Dog (CED).

CED Pongo practices her best model face on the life drawing stage.

In her role as CED of Winged Canvas, Pongo is responsible for managing all aspects of the studio. She makes sure that anyone who eats Cheetos or other cheese coated snacks shares with her. She ensures the studio always operates at peak cuteness levels and achieves this in many ways: she’ll jump on your lap for a quick snuggle, bring her toys to you and sometimes she’ll pose for life drawing.

A CED’s work is never done. Pongo poses for her fans.

Paintings of Pongo, by Bryan Navasero and student Julia, age 10

Pongo also oversees studio operations, such as testing the comfort level of the couch, cleaning stray food off the floor and barking at things both real and imagined. She enjoys a good cuddle, and will gladly sit on your lap and allow you to pet her.

Pongo helps me paint my cat even though she probably thinks I should paint her.

Pongo "helps" founder Fei Lu with her painting

Pongo's free kisses are a perk that all of our staff and students enjoy.

When Pongo and her best friend Sadie aren’t hanging out at the Art Hub, they spend their time with co-owners Fei Lu and Aaron Fruman. We’re (obviously) a dog-friendly space and Pongo and Sadie often act as our adorable muses.

Pongo and Sadie, um, taking a quick break. They usually work pretty hard. We swear.

In fact, Pongo and Sadie are drawn and painted so much that we think they may become the most famous dogs in Markham's history!

​Anime Pongo and Sadie, by student Abi, age 11

Pongo and Sadie, by student Moon, age 10

​Caricature of Sadie and Pongo in gouache, by intern Josephine Guan

Pongo in acrylic, by student Celia Chen, who is also learning to paint.

Oil Painting of Sadie and Pongo, by Creative Director Fei Lu

Dogs, cats, and other pets make great art subjects, and will patiently allow you to observe and draw them while they sleep. They have also inspired countless comics and character designs. Check out our video featuring Pongo, where artist Jessie Chang turns her into an Animal Crossing villager!