Jim Shore Santas

The enormous popularity of award-winning artist Jim Shore is the result of a lifetime of dedication, inspiration and plain old hard work. And as with most successful people, some good fortune has played a part. As Jim puts it, "Art is something I've done all my life. It's what I've always loved and the only thing I ever wanted to do. But making a living as an artist isn't easy. There are thousands of talented people out there that never got the chance to show what they can do. I've been lucky. Not only do I get to do what I love, I get to share it with people around the world. To Jim Santa Claus isn't just a character, he's a canvas to be painted. Taking designs derived from quilting, rosemaling, appliqué and flat perspective folk art, Jim creates an authentic new work of art rooted in a shared heritage dating back generations. "I can't imagine myself ever tiring of this," Jim says of his distinctive combination of themes and motifs, "I create multiple designs within each new piece, a combination of basic structure and elements that keep the eye and mind moving. It creates an energy that keeps me inspired."