This Santa came from somewhere deep … it’s an entirely invented face. 2009 was an interesting year. The depth (and breadth) of the recession had become clear, and (thanks to information from my brainiac financial wizard cousin, Chris) I knew we were in for at least 7 years of difficulty. Life had always been way too easy … we had three houses at the time, so we put everything on the market and decided to stay in the one that didn’t sell. That turned out to be Fort Gaines, Georgia … and despite the world crumbling all around, it also turned out to be a wonderful place to ride out the storm.
I vividly remember painting this Santa. My studio was still under construction, so I was working (of course) in the kitchen. I wanted viewers to feel soothed, and loved, and peaceful … so I made this face … with every single mark guided entirely by the feeling it evoked in me.
I actually dreamed of this Santa last night. He brought me a nail gun … crazy, huh … but that’s exactly what I’m giving myself for Christmas, so I guess there were visions of sugarplums and power tools dancing in my head. Between now and the New Year, with the exception of family time, I’m going to do StudioKitchen carpentry … and yes, I’m going to channel my inner Atomic Blond and crush my fear of power saws.
