By now, you’ve likely seen multiple illustrations of distinctly styled Santas and various gnomes throughout ChristmasVille’s website, as well as throughout Old Town if you’ve already begun exploring. These whimsical creations are the work of Rock Hill’s adopted son and famed illustrator, Vernon Grant, most widely known for his three fun-loving gnomes used to market Kellogg’s Rice Krispies®.
Vernon’s work encompasses much more than Snap ®, Crackle ®, and Pop® through his abundant illustrations for nationally known magazines and advertising campaigns.
Vernon Grant’s artwork can be seen displayed on street poles and in art galleries within Old Town during the entire month of December. There’s even a larger-than-life mural inspired by his iconic images, as well as multiple 3D museum-quality models in storefront windows along Main Street! In 2016, ChristmasVille organizers established a tradition of re-imagining Vernon Grant People’s Choice Santa images by commissioning life-size 3D creations. This year, the 8th model will be added to the collection, and we encourage you to take a stroll along Main Street to spot these handmade treasures. You can even turn it into a fun scavenger hunt! A special thanks is extended to Showtime Theatre Company for installing these works.
Grant the Gnome’s Pro Tip: The 3D Santa Windows aren’t the only ones decorated! Check out all the storefront windows along Main Street, many of which were decorated by our friends with the Junior Welfare League. There’s even a competition where you can vote for your favorite window design, sponsored by York County Natural Gas Authority.
