“I wanted to create a painting that would evoke both the history and traditions of the Christmas season,” said James C. Christensen. “I was surprised to discover that our Christmas is not just a transplantation of old world traditions, but a synthesis of customs brought to this country by our forefathers.”

Our present day Santa Claus is a symbol, not only of Christmas, but represents our melting-pot society. While our Christmas character is the conglomeration of traditions of many people and lands, he has become American in the same way we have. This painting is a fantasy, a personal interpretation of that “jolly old elf” that embodies not only the spirit of Christmas, but the best of America.”