...and some more Christmas Card Illustrations!

It's pretty much Christmas year-round here at the studio.  There's been many a summer day where the AC was cranking along with the sounds of Bing Crosby as a new Santa or Snowman image was being created.   I say "new" lightly because let's be honest... these illustrations are about as nostalgic and traditional as they come.   Nothing "new" about them.  I like it that way though.  Just sentimental I guess.

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My "In" with Santa

I probably shouldn't be telling you this, but I'm kind of buddies with Santa Clause.  A while back, he was nice enough to take some time out of his busy schedule to pose for some reference photos to be used for illustrations.  It was a crazy shoot that involved live rabbits, chickens, a puppy, and some very excited young children.   Santa wasn't aware of what he was walking into that evening, but being his jolly old self, he modeled like a pro.   Many thanks to all who helped.

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Winter Birds Puzzle

It's December here in the studio and things are hopping!   I've found my role as the family Santa has turned more into that of a late-night online ordering elf as brown paper boxes begin arriving at my doorstep on a semi-regular basis,   Today, though, one of those big brown mystery boxes arrived that wasn't another secret kid gift.  Instead, it held a pile of brand new puzzles from Bits and Pieces.  Most likely this bird scene was painted in the heat of August but finally now seems OK to post.  Take a look!:

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