Growing up in Pittsburgh we have witnessed some of the greatest sports athletes and shared in many indelible moments throughout our lifetime. Many of the players we looked up to and have come to know were not only great athletes in the game of sports, but great role models in the game of life. Whether we were the boys of summer on a field of dreams or playing on the frozen tundras in the Friday night lights of Fall, we emulated our heroes of the Steel City. From Clemente, Lemieux, Steelers of the Seventies and the ‘cradle of quarterbacks’ we wore their numbers and re-enacted those glorious moments etched in our minds. Those special moments were relived on the baseball diamonds, football fields and rural icy ponds of Pittsburgh. As in sports, the same lessons can be applied to your dreams in life or a potential goal you are seeking to acquire. Take hold of your dream and create your own championship moment.
Artist, Larry Klukaszewski
The other day, I featured a talented Pittsburgh artist, Willie Hobbs. As a result of the story, I have had the pleasure to meet yet another exceptionally talented Pittsburgh artist and one very passionate Pittsburgh sports fan. Larry Klukaszewski is a devoted family man and elementary school teacher within the Kiski Area School District. Aside from his position in the community as an educator, he also successfully owns and operates his very own professional sports company, Larry Klu Productions. He was inspired by his students, both past and present to begin the process of fulfilling his childhood dream of becoming a professional artist. Throughout his career as a teacher he continues to teach the basic fundamentals and inspiring lessons to his students to believe and pursue in your dreams. Now his dream is a reality with the unique designs he creates and the launching of his website,
Larry’s work is unique and unlike anything which I have seen as far as professional sports artists. His work is featured in the homes and private collections of many prominent athletes, both past and present. In December 2008, Larry presented veteran Steelers wide-receiver, Hines Ward with a hand-painted authentic game helmet. The helmet contained beautiful vivid artwork celebrating Hines’ stellar NFL career. Hines is the Pittsburgh Steelers all-time leading wide-receiver and often regarded as the best defensive-blocking wide-receiver in the game. His famous ear-to-ear smile personifies an athlete who truly is passionate about his love of the game. The work he has done both in the Pittsburgh community and for his proud Korean heritage makes him one of the many beloved players of the Steelers. More than likely we all will be seeing #86 gracing the hallowed shrine of the NFL Hall of Fame one day. The helmet was presented to Hines during his taping of the Hines Ward show which is also presented with KDKA-TV sports broadcaster/host, Bob Pompeani.
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Hines Ward & Larry Klukaszewski
Detail of Hines Ward Helmet by Artist, Larry Klukaszewski
One of Larry’s proudest moments was when he personally had the opportunity to deliver a custom painted NFL portrait football to Chairman and owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Mr. Dan Rooney. The ball was enshrined by the Steelers organization into the Great Hall at Heinz Field.
Pittsburgh Steelers Owner, Dan Rooney & Artist, Larry Klukaszewski
Larry’s focus continues to center mainly on professional athletes and the notable charities with which they are actively involved. The Pittsburgh Steelers have always played an integral role in the community, not only as professional athletes but in the causes which are dear to their heart and those set-up through their foundations. Currently Larry is working in conjunction with a project run by Steelers LB James Farrior called the James Farrior 51 Foundation and WR Santonio Holmes’ Third & Long Foundation.
Larry Klukaszewski & Steelers LB James Farrior
Larry Klukaszewski is the officially licensed artist for the Steel City Mafia Steelers Fan Club. The mafia is known throughout Steelers Nation for unifying Steelers fans globally and the tremendous work they do across the country for charitable organizations. This past year, Larry has dedicated himself to his hand-crafted work creating more NFL footballs, helmets and other fascinating sports memorabilia. The process of each of his works can be challenging and requires many hours with precision like detail. However, in the end the rewards are well worthwhile as evidenced in the photographs of the athletes he meets and events he has participated in.
‘Klu’ has been featured in both the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. WQED featured Larry in one of their nightly features on their show titled ‘On Q Magazine’. I recommend you watch the video featured on his website of the feature. You can sense at what a devout family man Larry is, but also catch a glimpse of him at work in his studio. This year, Larry is helping the Stanley Cup Champions, Pittsburgh Penguins with their varied charity organizations.
Pittsburgh Penguins Captain, Sidney Crosby & Larry Klukaszewski
Larry welcomes any opportunities to service your requests for commissions of custom painted footballs, baseballs, canvasses for your personal and private sports collection. The artist places an emphasis on charitable organizations and thanks you for visiting his website where Mr. Klukaszewski’s contact information can be made available. I have included a few extra samples of work which Larry has asked me to share with you and which will simply amaze you with.
Roberto Clemente baseball by Artist, Larry Klukaszewski
'The Chief' Art Rooney by Artist, Larry Klukaszewski
Mean Joe Greene Collector Plate by Artist, Larry Klukaszewski
Jack Lambert Custom Painting by Artist, Larry Klukaszewski
