THE STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK
Perhaps the most beautifully selfish thing we can ever do is give.
For in giving, we discover a happiness that no gift we receive could ever equal. The joy we place in another's heart somehow finds its way back into our own.
In Checking His List, Larry Hersberger explores this beautiful paradox through the timeless figure of Santa Claus—a symbol of generosity, kindness, and the extraordinary joy of giving.
Far away, in the stillness of a winter night, Santa sits at his wooden desk, surrounded by letters filled with childhood wishes. By the gentle glow of lamplight, he carefully reads, remembers, and prepares for the happiness he will bring to others.
Beyond the window, the cool blue of the winter night whispers of the distant North Pole. Inside, golden light embraces the aged wood, treasured books, and rich crimson of Santa's coat. The warmth of his world stands in quiet contrast to the darkness beyond.
Yet the true light in this painting does not come from the lamp.
It comes from the anticipation of giving.
From knowing that somewhere, a child's eyes will shine with wonder. That a small act of kindness will become a treasured memory. That the happiness we create for another may become the greatest happiness we ever know.
Checking His List is a celebration of generosity, of childhood wonder, and of the beautiful truth that the greatest joy of giving is what it gives back to the heart.
THE ARTISTIC PROCESS
Checking His List is a 100% original, one-of-a-kind artwork, created through Larry Hersberger's distinctive multidisciplinary artistic process.
The artwork began with an original, personally directed photographic session. The composition was printed onto fine art canvas and carefully sealed, creating the foundation for the oil painting.
Larry individually mixed his oil colors by hand and painted 100% of the visible canvas surface in oils, developing the rich textures, luminous contrasts, and expressive character of the finished artwork. A protective finishing treatment completed the painting.
This is not a limited-edition print or reproduction. It is a singular original work of art, created through the union of original photography, artistic composition, and traditional hand-applied oil painting.
ART REMAINS.
ABOUT THE SUBJECT
Cliff Snider | International Santa Claus Hall of Fame
Depicted in Majestic Santa, Cliff Snider has dedicated decades to bringing the spirit of Christmas to life. Inducted into the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame in 2012, he is known for his philosophy of “Keeping Christ in Christmas.”
An author and storyteller, Snider has shared his remarkable journey through his writing, including Santa's Journey: Sharing Christmas Year Round. His life and legacy bring an additional layer of meaning to this original painting by Larry Hersberger.