Larry M. Klukaszewski, pronounced Klu-ka-shev-ski, is an elementary school teacher who is successfully running his own sports art company, Larry Klu Productions.  He has been inspired by his students, past and present, in creating his art and this website.  After continually telling his students to pursue their dreams in life, "Mr. K." decided that it was time to practice what he had been preaching and to begin work on his childhood dream of becoming an artist.  In November 2007, he left his house one cold night to sell some simple sketches as Christmas presents from the back of his Blazer, and just two short years later, he can now say that his work resides in the collections of many prominent athletes, past and present.  "Steeler Nation" was able to watch Larry on the Hines Ward Show in December 2008 as he presented the host with a hand-painted authentic game helmet containing beautiful artwork done to celebrate Mr. Ward's brilliant career.  Hines, in fact, remarked that it was "very detailed."  However, Larry's proudest moment came when he was able to personally deliver a custom painted NFL Duke portrait ball of Mr. Rooney to him during a visit to the Steeler Chairman's office.  The ball can now be seen permanently displayed by the Steelers in the Great Hall at Heinz Field.  Larry continues to do work for professional athletes and their charities.  He is currently working on projects for James Farrior's 51 Foundation and Santonio Holmes's Third and Long Foundation.  "Klu" has also recently become the official artist of the premiere Steelers fan club in the world, the "Steel City Mafia."  The "mafia" is an organization well known for uniting Steeler fans and families while remembering to give back to charities across the country.

Much of  the past year has been dedicated to hand-crafted work on NFL footballs and helmets and other sports memorabilia items.  This work has produced truly unique results, as each piece is unlike any other.  The process is a challenging one, requiring many hours of diligent work.  Yet, Larry finds the work extremely rewarding and is ecstatic about the interest that these pieces have generated for his business.  The photos of Larry's artwork attempt to show the detail and care that has been put into each piece.  That being said, the pictures do not do the pieces their justice.  You have to see one up close and personal to be able to appreciate the craftsmanship.

The local media has been good to "Klu" as well.  Not only was he priviliged to appear on KDKA's Hines Ward Show, but he has been featured in articles done by the Pittsburgh Post Gazette and the Pittsburgh Tribune Review.  WQED, the PBS affiliate, also honored Larry by making him a part of it's nightly show, "On Q Magazine."  You can read the articles and watch those show clips here on this very site.

"Klu" has big plans for the upcoming year including helping the Stanley Cup Champions, the Pittsburgh Penguins and their charities in the Spring 2010.

Larry would be happy to custom paint a ball, canvas, or any other item for you to add to your prized collection.  Additionally, he has placed a high priority on assisting charitable organizations with his work and would be thrilled to discuss your ideas regarding helping others with his artistic talents.  Feel free to inquire about Larry's work by emailing or calling him.

Thanks for visiting and God Bless.

Larry M. Klukaszewski
Larry "Klu"
Professional Sports Artist, Teacher, and Pittsburgh Sports Nut