Old World Santa Claus Carrying Toy Sack Hand Carved Wood
by Dale
of SAINT NICHOLAS TOO
I'm very happy to have Dale and his Etsy shop, SAINT NICHOLAS TOO as a featured artist here on DZFANTASY.
As you can see from the delightful, handcarved Santa above, Dale's creative talents are used in creating delightful, handcarved, Old World Santas, as well as vintage ornaments, and much, much more! It is Christmas all year around in his SAINT NICHOLAS TOO shop. When you pay a visit, you will find Victorian style ornaments, Santa candy containers, antique style Santas, so be sure to drop by for a visit.
Let's read Dale's interview below to learn a bit more about how he was motivated to create his wonderful creations.
What led you to start creating your art/craft?
My love for Christmas,Santa Claus and Vintage. Antique and vintage Santas and Christmas ornaments are scarce and hard to find.If you do manage to find them,they are priced out of reach. A few years ago, I decided to try my hand at making antique style Santas and ornaments for my collection. It wasn't long before family and friends began requesting my creations as gifts. My wife suggested I try selling them. I discovered Etsy in 2009.
How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?
I started carving Santa Claus figures from wood after purchasing a few at Christmas fairs. For my Victorian style ornaments, candy containers and other Santas, I use the same materials and construction methods as were used for the originals. I look at pictures in books and magazines, plus handle original examples whenever possible, and figure out how they were put together. I like to use antique, vintage, salvaged and distressed materials to help achieve the vintage look. I don't strictly copy originals, but use them as my inspiration.
What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?
I love the entire process -- from figuring out how to make something to the satisfaction of a job well done. I especially enjoy the actual hands on crafting and working with the materials .
If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable to describe your art/craft, what would you choose and why?
A pumpkin. I carve wood.You carve a Jack-O-Lantern, but it's more than that.Pumpkins,J ack-O-Lanterns and Halloween are part of the magic and wonder of childhood. Along with Christmas,they bring back warm nostalgic memories.
If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your "creativity", what would that be and why?
Painting...because I have enjoyed painting and drawing since my childhood. I have also enjoyed print making and pottery.
What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?
To hold on to your child within.The magic and wonder of Christmas is something you never need grow out of."Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus..," is my motto.I still believe!
What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?
Try new things, new methods and new materials. Enjoy your art/craft.
Victorian Angel Christmas Ornament Paper Tinsel Glass Ball
Thanks, Dale, for a wonderful interview and for sharing your delightful, whimsical creations with all of us. I agree, we must never lose sight of the "young at heart" that is certainly in all of us!
Treat yourself to a whimsical journey through Dale's, SAINT NICHOLAS TOO SHOP by visiting the links below. Dale also has another shop on Etsy where he sells vintage items. See links below.
