by Elise, age 9 from Marseille, France, asks Santa how to draw him, Marseille’s ancient founding, and the santon nativity figure tradition.
Dear Santa, my name is Elise, and I am nine years old. I live in Marseille, France, where my grand-pere says our city is actually the oldest one in the entire country, founded thousands of years ago.
Dear Elise, a city that old deserves a very respectful, very careful flyover, your grand-pere picked a truly ancient hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
How do I draw Santa Claus? My maitresse wants us to draw our own version for a class project.
Start with a big round belly, a bushy white beard, rosy cheeks, and a warm smile, Elise, and you have already captured the important parts. The best drawings always come from adding your own little personal touches, so do not be afraid to make yours entirely your own.
My grand-pere says Marseille was founded by ancient Greek settlers a very long time ago. Is that true?
It is true, Elise, Marseille was founded by Greek settlers around 600 BC, making it the oldest city in all of France. I always feel a deep respect flying over history that old.
My grand-pere says families in this region make tiny clay figures called santons for their nativity scenes every Christmas. Is that true?
It is true, Elise, santons are a beloved Provencal tradition, small handcrafted clay figures representing villagers and everyday characters gathered around the nativity scene. That kind of careful, artistic craftsmanship, passed down through generations, adds real warmth to any Christmas display.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Elise Fabron
Marseille, France
P.S. Can I send you my class drawing project when it is finished?
Please do, Elise, I keep a very special collection of children’s artwork at the workshop.
