Saint Nicholas -Original Watercolor Painting
St. Nick / Santa Claus
A Year of Saints: Created as part of the A Year of Saints Collection. Learn more about this collection and the outlook that shaped my process HERE.
Details: An original painting, unframed, 6.5x9.9 inches, pencil outline layered in high quality watercolor pigments on cold-pressed (textured) paper. Artist's signature clearly visible in fine-tipped brown art pen.
Watercolor paintings develop layer by layer until the portrait comes into focus — robust and intricate. This particular palette is bold and festive, inspired by the Christmas season.
In contrast to the traditional Santa Claus, this portrait depicts the great bishop in a more historically accurate rendering, without compromising on holiday cheer. His vestments are a deep red with gold accents, and at the last second, I added holly to his halo.
Inspiration: Saint Nick has been loved and vernerated by Christians since his death in the early 2nd century. He was a generous son in a weathly Greek family, a beloved and passionate bishop, and vervent believer in Christ. St. Nicholas is here holding three bags of gold, symbolizing his generosity. The tradition of "Santa" bringing Christmas gifts actually stems from a young St. Nicholas dropping these bags in a poor man's window!
He is also known for giving gifts to children during his time as bishop, though not exclusively on Christmas night.
As always, I researched tirelessly to honor the ethnicity and historical accuracy of this saint. Did you know that St. Nicholas spent over 5 years in prison during the reign of Emporer Diocletian (a reign of severe Christian Persecution), probably tortured and in solitary confinement? I wanted to stay true to "Jolly Saint Nick" as best I could, but ended up sneaking in a weathered look under his smile.
Framing: I imagine this painting matted in a neutral cream color to accent the seasonal palette and showcase the portrait. I'd set it in a frame that complements your home’s aesthetic, in a light-colored wood or festive metalic.
More information on how to best preserve and frame your artwork will come with your painting shippment. Please feel free to email me at rosalie.ardentdraws@gmail.com with any other questions!
