The Academy Art Museum delivered one of the more imaginative moments at this year’s Easton Holiday Parade, presenting a float that blended craftsmanship, humor, and a distinctly local creative spirit. Central to the display was a beautifully restored 1932 GMC pickup truck, generously provided by David and Joan North, longtime friends of the museum and a key collaborator on last year’s Bugatti exhibition.
In the truck bed, artist and AAM instructor Stewart White designed and hand-painted a charming diorama—a miniature reimagining of the museum itself. The scene portrays elves industriously constructing artworks, a playful nod to both Santa’s workshop and the daily creative production in AAM’s studios. White’s vision was brought to life with the support of a wide team of AAM instructors, staff, and volunteers, who contributed many hours to the build and finishing touches.
During the parade, students, children, teachers, and staff dressed as elves walked alongside the float, distributing magic sculpt and painting tools to spectators. Their presence reinforced the theme: that remarkable things are being made right here in Easton by a vibrant community of artists and learners.
For those who missed the parade, the 1932 GMC and its festive diorama are currently parked in front of the Academy Art Museum, giving visitors a chance to see the installation up close—or to take a holiday selfie before heading inside. The museum’s major exhibition, Robert Rauschenberg at 100: New Connections, is now on view, free and open to the public.
The project, championed by AAM’s new Manager of Membership, Laura Ryan, stands as a thoughtful example of what collective creativity can produce—and how art can bring a community together in joyful, unexpected ways. Consider giving the gift of a museum membership this holiday season!
This video is approximately two minutes in length. For information about the Academy Art Museum, please go here.
Write a Letter to the Editor on this Article
We encourage readers to offer their point of view on this article by submitting the following form. Editing is sometimes necessary and is done at the discretion of the editorial staff.