Today Dylan met Wyland. He was nervous and excited but that all went away the moment they shook hands and said hello. Wyland began to paint a manatee then handed the brush to Dylan. The painting is beautiful! Seeing Dylan’s signature next to Wyland’s … Priceless.
Best In Show Youth Exhibit
He is obviously still thinking about the ocean and his experience at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Kat (far left) and crew with Dylan before the tour. Dylan was happy that the Manatee Nebula has a new home with these ladies.
Feeding Hugh and Buffet a snack of kale, sweet potatoes and apple slices. For the first time in his life, Dylan tried kale! He said he wanted to enjoy “the whole experience.”
Dr. Gordon Bauer gave Dylan a very informative tour of the marine lab.
More details coming soon…
Dylan has one thing on his mind today and that’s the ocean. Since we are surrounded by the desert, painting sharks and waterfalls is as close as he can get for now. 
This week Dylan had the pleasure of meeting Michael Tolleson, an autistic savant artist based in Kent, Washington. Michael was in Santa Fe for the Kentucky Derby Day fundraiser benefitting Habitat for Humanity. Dylan spent some quality time with Michael asking questions about his craft and how he sees the colors that he puts on the canvas.
Dylan was intrigued by Michael’s use of a palette knife to paint and how quickly he produces his masterpieces. Thank you Michael! We hope our paths cross again soon.
Dylan spent Earth Day 2015 at Sandia Lakes with friends and family. The new kayak dipped in the water for the first time as the Railrunner train sped by. Dylan says, “it’s the best boat for relaxing and just watching the wildlife around me.”
Update: Dylan won first place in his age group and overall Best in Show. His Ruddy Duck will be judged on the national level April 17. For the next year, Blue Beak in Flight will travel the United States with all of the best in show winners from the other 49 states and territories.
This acrylic painting of a Ruddy Duck is going to be submitted for the Junior Federal Duck Stamp competition. Dylan really enjoyed learning about the duck and its habitat. His conservation message, “Preserving the beauty of waterfowl and their habitat is a reflection of humanity’s soul.”
artbydyl 