Karl Jahnke'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.

Fourteen of the 25 bulldogs will be available for live auction. In addition, there will be raffle prizes, including the chance to win one of three 17-inch commemorative bulldogs. Following is an interview with Karl Jahnke of Crystal Lake, whose creation is one of the commemorative bulldogs.

The auction will be held 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 can we see it?

Karl Jahnke: Abstract/Groovy is at the .

Batavia Patch: Who is your sponsor?

Jahnke: Bulldogs Unleashed.

Batavia Patch: What was the inspiration for it?

Jahnke: My prior paintings and abstract painting style.

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

Jahnke: It took 15-20 minutes; I used acrylic paint.

Batavia Patch: How long have you been an artist?

Jahnke: I have been an artist all my life and then some. I am grateful I was given the opportunity to participate in the Bulldogs Unleashed project. I truly enjoyed painting my bulldog, and I hope that comes through to everyone who sees it.

Batavia Patch: Why did you become an artist?

Jahnke: My parents told me I had to.

Batavia Patch: What inspires your art?

Jahnke: Bulldogs and other breeds.

Batavia Patch: What media do you usually use?

Jahnke: Acrylic or oil.

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

Jahnke: Figurative.

Batavia Patch: Where can the public see your work?

Jahnke: The public can go to karljahnke.com and decorativepaintingbykarl.com. Also, I exhibit at the Elaine Erickson Gallery in Milwaukee.