In the small town of Seiffen, located in Erzgebirge (the Ore Mountains), in Eastern Germany, there is a rich history of wood craftsmanship. In the 1800s, once the tin ore ran out in the area, miners turned to making ornaments, nutcrackers, candle holders and toys. They became skilled artisans, developing a unique style that became coveted around the world. Many people still travel to the area today to build their collection of these beautiful pieces.I have warm memories of putting ornaments like these on the tree as a child and I wanted to express the wonder I felt at Christmas time as a child in these illustrations - a little Christmas magic! The illustrations I have been showing you were inspired by vintage ornaments from this area, and by forest scenes expressing the spirit of sharing and giving.
These are two more of the illustrations from this series. There is something I love about silvery white birch trees poking out from a blanket of snow, the wind blowing quietly, snowflakes floating down, being rugged up against the cold. A still beauty.
3 comments:
So wonderful! I wish I had half the talent you have for these magical drawings! Each one amazes me more than the last, something I didn't think could happen! You do such marvelous work!
Im with you on the Silver birches- very storybook. Actually your work would look awesome in a childrens storybook!
I love that polar bear one. I don't know how you thought to have a boy sharing with a polar bear, but it's adorable.
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