As an elementary school teacher I often heard the debate about the truth about Santa Claus. For myself, I believe he is a wonderful symbol of Christmas. He wears red, the first color of Christmas, which reminds us of the atoning blood of our Savior, Jesus Christ. He wears white, a sign of purity and of being washed clean through the atonement of our Savior. He gives gifts freely, asking nothing in return. He finds happiness and joy wherever he goes. He encourages goodness, charity, and love. The commercial world can make of him what they will, but for me he will always be a charming symbol of what Christmas was ever meant to be.
White on White
One of my major Ah-Ha moments as a painter was when I realized that white is never really white. After painting Santa's hair and hat I've decided that all my students should paint a Santa. There are at least 101 shades (hues) of white. When we look at clouds we tend think "white". But next time you see a cloud, really look. How many different shades are there? How much of it is really even white? And so it was today with Santa. A few strokes of straight white to set off the highlights. But most of it is one of several different hues.
A Right Jolly Old Elf
I'm loving how his personality is coming through. There is still work to do, but I kinda like him. We've all met lots of Santa's Helpers over the years. Even as an adult I've wondered what it would be like to be awakened in the night to Santa in my living room. What kind of a person would it take to find him a stranger in your house and not be afraid of him? Have you ever met someone who was so full of pure love that that they put you at ease instantly? Someone you felt you could hug and sit on his lap no matter your age? It's fun to enjoy the traditions of Christmas. At the same time, I want to be the kind of person that makes everyone feel they are with someone safe.
Who Is It?
Guess who stopped by the studio today? It felt so good to finally be sitting at the canvas again. Thanksgiving travels, my art show opening, and the craziness of life and have kept me away long enough. It gets to the point where it literally becomes painful not to paint. And in addition to Santa, I started a painting for my brother and another one for a special someone who will be having a very big birthday coming up soon. Aaaahhh... it feels good to be back in business.