This small painting was created as a label for a beer brewed by a friend’s brewery. The beer is called Silver Bell Belgian Strong Alefrom Elder Piper Brewery in Petoskey, MI. It has a slightly floral, spicy aroma and is made for sharing during the festive season. I wanted my painting to reflect the layers, warmth, and care that went into crafting this strong ale, while also incorporating festive motifs I’ve used in my work for years to represent the winter season.

Inspired by the word "mosaic," which the brewers at Elder Piper used to describe their beer, I employed a textured palette of fruit and spice flavors, creating shapes reminiscent of mosaic art. The painting evokes candlelight, snow, and playful winter activities.

I included elements that evoke the festive season and winter: dark green for the evergreens that decorate our homes and tables, and playful striped long johns. These striped long johns hold personal significance for me, as I started using them in my paintings after living in Vermont and acquiring a favorite striped union suit from the local woolen mill to stay warm in my studio during the winter. They symbolize coziness and also add a touch of Norwegian folklore, reflecting the idea of barn santas or elves who protect the homestead if treated well by families. During Jul in Norway, children leave a bowl of porridge out for the barn elves as a gesture of goodwill; if not, the elves mischievously meddle with the family and farm. I view these long johns as a nod to the playfulness of the northern landscape in wintertime and the Norwegian gårdnissen.

This piece is currently on display at Elder Piper in Petoskey, MI through the New Year and will be available for purchase afterward.

The beer with its festive label is available for purchase at Elder Piper in Petoskey, MI.

10 in. x 10 in.

Minerals on canvas