"Dashing through the snow
In a one-horse open sleigh
O’er the fields we go
Laughing all the way
Bells on bobtails ring
Making spirits bright
What fun it is to ride and sing
A sleighing song tonight!"
When it comes to holiday songs, nothing captures the spirit of the season like the 170 year-old American classic, Jingle Bells. And when it comes to holiday art and home décor, nothing rivals the nostalgic scenes of America’s favorite artist, Terry Redlin. So it is not surprising to discover that these two beloved American art forms have a lot in common.
Terry Redlin loved the holidays. And in particular, he loved the friendship and togetherness of an old-fashioned Christmas. Growing up on the quiet and sparsely populated prairies of South Dakota, Christmas was often the only time during the year when folks were able to gather from near and far to enjoy time with family and friends. Those holiday celebrations were cherished by Terry and he memorialized them in numerous Americana artworks over the course of his career. In reality, by the 1930’s when Terry was born, horses no longer served as the primary means of transportation in rural America. Yet many horse-drawn sleighs were still in use for winter travel on snow-covered roads and, just as importantly, for nostalgic wintertime fun. Many of Terry’s favorite memories were of grand holiday gatherings featuring rousing horse-drawn “cutter rides” with family and friends, a theme repeatedly reflected in his beloved holiday scenes.
This year, you too, can spread the cheer of a joyous holiday gathering without leaving the safety and comfort of your own home. Whether you will be celebrating with loved ones in person or simply in spirit, a gift of art from America’s favorite artist will bring a smile to their faces wherever they may be. So take a moment to travel back in time and enjoy a traditional holiday celebration with the art of Terry Redlin, whose heartwarming artistic creations are available from Wild Wings in a wide variety of products and price points. Happy holidays!
