Hunter Johnson’s depiction of a dog jumping off of a dock to catch a tennis ball is the 63rd annual Watercade button design.
The 13-year-old’s artwork represents a warm summer day with clear skies, ideal for those preparing to do outdoor activities. For example, going to the park with their dogs, going to the lakes and enjoying Litchfield Watercade. The drawing also hits close to home for most Minnesotans because they are notorious for being proud of their lakes, doing a multitude of activities on them and taking their dogs along for the fun.
Hunter said he thought his drawing wasn’t good enough initially, because he thought some of the lines were badly drawn. However, one day when he came home, he found Brandi Johnson, his mother, crying after learning his artwork was selected, he said.
“First I didn’t believe her (because) how would she know that I drew this,” Hunter said. “So then I figured it was true and then I couldn’t believe it, and then after that, I was like really surprised. I was really amazed when I won. I was super happy.”
Hunter said he loves dogs when asked what inspired him to do this particular drawing.
“I figured everyone likes dogs, so I just wanted to draw a dog,” Hunter said. “And I like dogs, so I drew a dog.”
At first, Hunter wasn’t too sure what kind of dog he drew but Keith Johnson, his father, said it looks like a black Schnauzer, to which Hunter agreed it was. When Keith first heard the great news, it made him very happy, he said.
“That was good to hear,” Keith said. “It made me happy (and it) boosts (Hunter’s) confidence a little bit.”
Anyone can purchase the button for $4 each from a variety of businesses throughout Litchfield, including the Independent Review as well as from any of the six Miss Litchfield candidates. The proceeds help fund Watercade events and promote the annual community celebration.
Copyright 2019 Litchfield Independent Review/Crow River Media/Media News Group.