Santa at the North Pole 

Scott Gustafson made this painting, “Santa at the North Pole,” employing a high level of detail in his depiction of a timeless, albeit imagined, scene. The painting invites us into a world of festive preparations, where Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, and even a polar bear work in harmony. However, beneath the surface of this idyllic setting, we see a reinforcement of traditional gender roles. Mrs. Claus is portrayed in a domestic role, while Santa is poised for his heroic, world-spanning journey. Moreover, the elves, as Santa’s “helpers,” raise questions about labor and class. Despite the charm and nostalgia, the painting can be seen as a reflection of societal structures. It invites us to consider the ways in which our cultural narratives shape our perceptions of gender and work, especially during a season so heavily steeped in tradition.