The Merrill Area Chamber of Commerce unveiled their new 2012 Very Merrill Christmas Card titled “Santa Claus is Coming Town.” This year’s card depicts the historic Old City Hall building and the annual Christmas parade circa 1940’s by local artist Ted Nicholson. Cards go on sale Oct. 24.
The chamber has held an art contest the last two years encouraging local artists to submit a piece of art for their annual Christmas card that depicts something “Merrill” either past, present or future. The selected artwork is then printed into holiday card sets, limited edition signed prints by the artist, and two additional sizes suitable for framing. The original artwork becomes the property of the chamber and the winning entry is proudly displayed at the chamber office. Local artist Ted Nicholson has won this honor for both holiday cards.
“We are once again thrilled with the painting that Ted submitted,” said Debbe Kinsey, the chamber’s executive director. “Once again he has captured an iconic historic building and one of Merrill’s largest celebrations, our Christmas parade.”
The local artist Ted Nicholson is a graduate of Merrill High School and has artwork displayed on the walls of the school. The chamber unveiled this year’s painting at their annual dinner and Ted was introduced, receiving kudos from the area businesses in attendance. He credits his abilities to his art teachers in the Merrill school district.
Last year’s artwork was a gorgeous depiction of the historic Lincoln County Courthouse and the large Center Avenue Bridge, giving Merrill residents a real sense of home. More than 7,000 card sets and 130 prints were purchased, many of which were sent as gifts to former Merrill residents all across the United States.
“Ted definitely has a talent for capturing a true feeling of Merrill in his paintings,” concluded Kinsey. “While last year’s painting was warm and felt like decades of history, this year’s painting is bright and colorful with a touch of whimsy. Yet it still captures the spirit of Merrill and our Christmas traditions.”
To purchase the 2nd Annual Very Merrill Christmas cards or prints contact the Merrill Chamber of Commerce at (715) 536-9474 or stop by their office at 705 N. Center Avenue. For more information visit their website at www.merrillchamber.org.