Patrick Kane — “That’s Incredible”

The Build-Up

This painting of Patrick Kane came just weeks after my moment with Jonathan Toews, that pushed me to continue pursuing sports art. When I found out Kane would be back in Chicago for an autograph signing—on August 8th, officially recognized as Patrick Kane Day—I knew I had to create a painting.

I immediately bought a ticket and got to work.

The Painting

For this painting, I focused on capturing a more intense and locked-in version of Kane on the ice. I referenced a moment that showed his focus and control, but chose to bring the jersey back to red—tying it to the identity of the Blackhawks and the era he helped define.

It wasn’t just about recreating an image—it was about capturing the presence he played with.

The Wait

The day of the signing, I was nervous. I always am before showing an athlete my work, you never really know how they’re going to react.

Kane was sitting at a table signing autographs and taking photos with fans. He stayed seated the entire time.

The Moment

When it was my turn, I showed him the painting and told him I made it.

He looked at it and said,

“You did this?”

I told him yes.

“That’s awesome.”

He paused, took another look, and said,

“That’s incredible.”

That moment meant everything.

When I asked to take a photo, he stood up to take it with me and the painting, something he hadn’t been doing for others.

What It Meant

Moments like that stay with me.

It’s not just about getting something signed—it’s about creating something meaningful and seeing it resonate with the person it represents.

I don’t paint just any athlete. I paint the moments and players I feel connected to—things that mean something to me and, hopefully, to the people who see the work.

Every signed piece I’ve created carries that meaning with it.

This moment with Kane was another reminder that I’m moving in the right direction.