Jon Kittleson of Austin, MN will present 12 original colored pencil drawings featuring a variety of dog breeds in a show called “Art Unleashed” on July 12 from 8:00AM to 4:00 PM at Leashes and Leads, 6214 14th St NW, Byron, MN. All originals will be for sale. There will also be a variety of prints for sale including drawings of cats, dogs, and farm animals. The show is free and open to the public.

Kittleson’s vibrant artwork is in collections of pet lovers across Southeast Minnesota and Northeast Iowa. His brilliant use of color makes it seem as though man’s best friend will jump right off the paper and give you a big kiss. Kittleson says his art “represents the power to overcome any challenge, mental or physical.” His art talent flourished after becoming partially paralyzed in a school wrestling accident. Dogs are a favorite subject because his own two dogs, Rosco and Ellie, motivate him to stay active and keep a positive outlook.

Kittleson enjoys using colored pencils as an art medium because they offer a wide range of colors and they are simple to control with regards to his manual dexterity challenges. He chooses bright color combinations that work together to create movement and bring the subject to life.