Times Observer photo by Josh Cotton Andrew McCanna presented his painting “Who let the dogs out?” to Greg Austin, division president with Targeted Pet Treats, on Friday.

Andrew McCanna is now a paid artist.

McCanna’s painting of four dogs – entitled “Who let the dogs out?” – was presented to Greg Austin, division president of Targeted Pet Treats, on Friday afternoon.

His work is part of the BEinspired program through Bollinger Enterprises, Inc., which serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Jennifer Kilburn, art teacher at BEI, said the initial design was for a 30 inch by 30 inch painting including just one dog but changed that to four and picked “more neutral” color shades.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” she said of working with McCanna and thanked him for his enthusiasm.

Times Observer photo by Josh Cotton Andrew McCanna signs his painting.

Kilburn said about 55 hours went into the painting.

McCanna didn’t have a lot to say about his work. He said he enjoyed it and knew he would get the money from its sale.

Kilburn noted that McCanna has more art work coming that will be part of a spring art show.

“I love the work you guys do,” Austin said, noting he was “super excited” about the painting. “I can’t wait to get it on the wall.”

His parents were also there – Brenda, his mom, said the painting is “awesome” while his dad, Wes, said the “picture is great.”

“Jen (Kilburn) has done a phenomenal job,” BEI Executive Director Dr. William Clark said, speaking of the initiative’s goal to “get clients into the community…. Hopefully, that painting will brighten your day.”

BEinspired artwork is currently displayed several places in the county, including Warren General Hospital and Grace Fellowship Church, which hosts BEI’s art program.

Jim Turner, a program specialist at BEI that works with McCanna, said he was “flabbergasted” when he saw McCanna’s painting and said it “was so good” and spoke about the significance of “realizing (their clients) have these potentials.”