Holland artist’s 23rd holiday card features an iconic setting

The Jolly Snowman has arrived at Carolyn Stich Studio in downtown Holland.
 
For 23 years, local artist and business owner Carolyn Stich has created a Holland-themed holiday card, commissioned by the Holland Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, to support an organization in need.
 
“We wanted to not only create a holiday card that represents Carolyn’s festive spirit but also share a piece of our local culture,” says Linda Hart, executive director of the Visitors Bureau.
 
This year's card is titled "The Jolly Snowman,” featuring a snowman taking a holiday selfie in front of Holland’s iconic Big Red lighthouse. Inside, the message reads, “Warmest Wishes from Big Red’s Winter Wonderland.”
 
“I am thrilled to have created the Christmas card again this year,” Stich says. “I can't believe this is my 23^rd year of creating this card for our city.  Isn't it fun to imagine a snowman as our winter lighthouse keeper?”

Charity is close to artist’s heart
 
The cards can be purchased exclusively at the Holland Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, 78 E. 8th St.; the Carolyn Stich Studio, 29 W. 8th St.; Van Wieren Hardware, 645 Douglas Ave.; and during the Kerstmarkt, at 8th Street Marketplace. Prices are $3 for a single card and $18 for a package of 10. Proceeds will go to the Hands of Hope, the philanthropic arm of The Cancer & Hematology Centers.

The nonprofit is special for Stitch, a breast cancer survivor. Hands of Hope provides financial support to West Michigan cancer patients, their families and the organizations that support them.
 
“Since my breast cancer treatments, it sounds cliche, but I really appreciate every extra day I have,” Stich shared with The Lakeshore in 2020.  “I hope my art shows how much I love life and am grateful to be healthy,” 
 
That same year, Stitch used her art to lift up those who are there for people who are sick. She created six pieces of colorful, whimsical artwork with uplifting messages that were placed around Holland Hospital to greet people as they arrived or drove past the busy facility that, like many others, was being stretched to care for people who have COVID-19.