The Exemplary 2026
Honorable Mention, Non-Professional Non-Original without Instruction

Originally, this was a Halloween canvas. The canvas (unknow designer) originally had Santa holding a pumpkin. I had the pumpkin painted out and I continued Santa’s shirt and belt and added the chicken. One of the things I love about my brother John is his sense of humor. He wore Groucho glasses in his senior yearbook photo at the University of Wisconsin. That is not the only occasion he added these glasses to his attire. He also believes every household should have a rubber chicken, a sentiment I agree with. This project is a tribute to my brother and the joy he brings. I hope he will like it when I give it to him next Christmas.

The beard is Thread Gatherers Wooly White Silk Curls thread which has unfortunately been discontinued. It was couched on to the canvas with Rainbow Gallery’s Whisper. I also used Rainbow Gallery’s threads: Neon Rays, Splendor, Petite Very Velvet. In addition, I used DMC Floche and Perle Cotton, and Gloriana Silk
Stitches include, basketweave and tent, satin, padded satin, couching, a darning pattern, and encroaching Gobelin.