George Rodrigue (American/Louisiana, 1944-2013) "The Blue Dog Bug" Hand-painted 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle 612 miles 4-1984 2.0L SOHC Engine Manual Transmission Recent service records available on request. h. 60", w. 68", l. 161" Notes: The "Blue Dog Bug" by George Rodrigue is an exceptional, one-of-a-kind, hand-painted car, which was a special commission through exclusive retailer Neiman Marcus for their InCircle program. According to Jacques Rodrigue, the artist's son, "George Rodrigue rarely lent his artwork for objects and this makes the Blue Dog Bug extremely rare and unique. He and Neiman Marcus partnered on several national promotions during the 1990s and the Blue Dog Bug demonstrates the creativity that the two enjoyed while working together." George Rodrigue began his nearly decade-long collaboration with the prestigious retailer in 1996, when he was commissioned to create the cover of their men's catalogue – the single requirement being that the artist incorporate the retailer's butterfly symbol into the image. The resulting painting, "Butterflies are Free" was such a resounding success, that Rodrigue returned in 1998 with "Hawaiian Blues", and in 1999 with "The Millennium”. 1999 was also the year that the artist painted three fiberglass cows as part of the citywide Chicago Cow Parade charity fundraiser. Neiman Marcus established the InCircle program to reward the most loyal shoppers. The InCircle program has 20 tiers with a top tier of five million points. Over the years, the top rewards have included exclusive trips, experiences and cars. In 2000, Neiman's InCircle top tier program included the "Blue Dog Bug". The present owners, intrigued by this work, instantly contacted the retailer in regards to their eligibility; it was the impetus not only for an impressive collection of works by Rodrigue, but also the beginning of a personal relationship with the artist. See More