“Chosen Tree”

R. J. (Ralph) McDonald is one of our countries most highly respected artists. Recognized by Ducks Unlimited as International Artist of the Year (2006), his art is in the collections of a United States Supreme Court Justice, two Governors, several Senators and Congressmen as well as movie starts corporations, business leaders plus tens of thousands of other collectors that appreciate McDonald’s realistic paints and limited-edition prints.
He is also known for his paintings of Santa Claus and other Christmas themed images. In fact, he himself stood in next to a spruce tree for photographs he used as references when painting this month’s cover image, “Chosen Tree.”
There is so much symbolism crafted into this scene. The obvious is a jolly Santa. Then there are the critters like the whitetail buck, chipmunk, red cardinal recognized in both Native American and early Americana folk-lore as a sign of good luck. Seeing a cardinal and blue jay together represents a sense of optimism and one can expect good luck and prosperity.
Then there is the “Chosen Tree.” The Star of David” guided the Wise Men to the stable in Bethlehem where Christ was born. Did you notice the cleverly “hidden” Nativity scene in the tree?
This is certainly a joyous scene that captures so many of the important aspects of the season. It is also Ralph McDonald and Team TOJ’s way of wishing each of you a joyous and Blessed Christmas holiday.
For more information on “Chosen Tree” and other fine works of art by Ralph J. McDonald, visit www.countrysidestudio.com, or call (615) 767-4480. — Bill L. Olson

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