b. 1948 d. 2010
Site Affiliation: Dog Mountain,
Home of Stephen Huneck Gallery
Stephen Huneck was an American folk artist best known for his whimsical woodcut prints, hand-carved furniture, and sculptures celebrating the spiritual bond between dogs and people. Inspired by his beloved black Lab, Sally, Huneck created an entire world of dog-centered art, books, and architecture from his home in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. After a near-death experience in 1994, he devoted himself to building the Dog Chapel—a hand-built sanctuary filled with his woodcarvings, stained glass, and heartfelt tributes from visitors around the world. Huneck’s work blends humor, reverence, and a profound understanding of unconditional love. His legacy lives on through the beloved mountaintop retreat he created: Dog Mountain.
Primary Medium: Woodcarving, printmaking
Primary Stylistic Term: Folk Art
Fun Fact: Huneck trained his dog Sally to “sign” books with an ink paw print.
Recommended Publications: The Art of Stephen Huneck by Laura Beach (2004)