Book Description
Jon Van Zyle entered his first Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race(r) in 1976. He was establishing himself as an artist, and the race was a bold new challenge. His 1,100-mile journey across the breathtakingly beautiful and sometimes dangerous wilderness was as much spiritual as physical, and the experience inspired a quarter-century of work. Jon loved the Iditarod and was an early supporter. After the 1976 race, the artist donated a painting for a poster sold to raise funds for the event. The posters have become an annual tradition since 1977. Jon became the official Iditarod artist in 1979, the year he competed a second time. Since then he has earned international popularity as a wildlife and landscape artist. JON VAN ZYLE'S IDITAROD MEMORIES is a combination of stunning artwork and great stories-the care and affection given the dogs, obstacles faced by mushers, the history of the Nome serum run, the vital role played by volunteers along the trail, the importance of the "Iditarod Air Force," as well as Jon's personal experiences. In 2001, Jon will release his 25th Iditarod commemorative poster. Jon's wife, Jona, tells the story about each poster with authenticity, insight, and love of the dogs.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Jon Van Zyle entered his first Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race(r) in 1976. He was establishing himself as an artist, and the race was a bold new challenge. His 1,100-mile journey across the breathtakingly beautiful and sometimes dangerous wilderness was as much spiritual as physical, and the experience inspired a quarter-century of work.

Jon loved the Iditarod and was an early supporter. After the 1976 race, the artist donated a painting for a poster sold to raise funds for the event. The posters have become an annual tradition since 1977. Jon became the official Iditarod artist in 1979, the year he competed a second time. Since then he has earned international popularity as a wildlife and landscape artist.

JON VAN ZYLE'S IDITAROD MEMORIES is a combination of stunning artwork and great stories-the care and affection given the dogs, obstacles faced by mushers, the history of the Nome serum run, the vital role played by volunteers along the trail, the importance of the "Iditarod Air Force," as well as Jon's personal experiences.