Dawn Tutt's Bulldogs Unleashed Q+A

The summer of 2011 may be remembered for many reasons, but one will be , the public art display of 25 larger-than-life bulldogs that has captured the interest and imagination of many local residents. Here is an interview with Dawn Tutt, one of the artists whose creativity has made the exhibit a success since the 30-inch-high by 50-inch-long frames went on display in June.

Her bulldog, Bulldog Bikes Batavia, is among the 14 decorated bulldogs that will be auctioned off Saturday, Sept. 10, at the Fox Valley Country Club, 2500 N. River Rd. (Route 25), North Aurora.

Batavia Patch: What is the name of your bulldog and where was its summer home?

Dawn Tutt: Bulldog Bikes Batavia was on the corner of Houston and Island Avenue (in front of City Hall).

Batavia Patch: Who was your sponsor?

Tutt: Dreyer Medical Clinic

Batavia Patch: What was your inspiration for Bulldog Bikes Batavia?

Tutt: I am on the Batavia Bicycle Commission and I wanted to come up with something that represented cycling in the community.  I thought it was perfect since there is so much bike traffic coming through Batavia from the Fox River Trail and other surrounding trails.  I was also excited to learn that the founder of Dreyer Medical Clinic was known for making house calls on his bike!

Batavia Patch: How long did it take you to complete it and what medium did you use?

Tutt: It took two months. I used acrylic paint and a bike helmet.

Batavia Patch: How long have you been an artist?

Tutt: All my life

Batavia Patch Why you become an artist?

Tutt: My mother is a retired grade school teacher and a very talented artist. I grew up admiring her big, colorful bulletin boards in her room and I knew I wanted to be just like her.

Batavia Patch: What are your inspirations?

Tutt: Art work by Abby and Aiden Tutt

Batavia Patch: What media do you usually use to create your artwork?

Tutt: I use mixed media—anything I find in the garbage and left over building materials.

Batavia Patch: What is your favorite subject for your work?

Tutt: Depends on what has sparked my interest. Right now, it's birds.

Batavia Patch: Where can the public can see your work?

Tutt: I have had the honor of showing my work at and I have been in one local show, called Birdland. I am going to begin a new batch of work, and will hopefully be participating in more local shows this fall and winter.