This Advent Calendar was designed by Brooke Rothshank and handprinted on her RISO printer in our home studio. Calendar is approximately 5" x 7" and comes with an envelope.
The Risograph is a stencil duplicator. Think of it as a cross between screen printing and photocopying. The Riso prints one color at a time in bright, vibrant colors. Repeated printing can yield multicolored results, similar to screen printing.
This advent calendar cover is based on a photo I took of my father holding my middle child as an 18 mo old. My Dad passed away in 2024 so this picture has become a touchstone image of the love we shared with him.
The words I included “No more a stranger or a guest but like a child at home” are the final line from the Hymn, “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need.” A friend pointed this line out to me and I have claimed it as a favorite ever since. Isn't it what we all want, to be loved and accepted as we are? To feel safe and cared for? To be recognized and welcomed unconditionally.
The stylized cover image is a play on the traditional Madonna and child. I love the idea of a masculine figure being celebrated for displaying strength in tenderness.
Behind each door you will find a different language of “I love you.” To love and be loved is truly to be at home. It is a universal desire that spans all cultures and differences. On the inside of each door is an image of a snack or treat that relates to the culture of the language it accompanies. Being fed represents a basic way of caring for and welcoming others. Additionally, food, especially snacks we might have eaten as kids, are a nostalgic part of feeling at home.
In the last couple of years I have had the privilege of working with people affected by the local jail system and have had the repeated experience of being accepted and inspired by people with extreme obstacles in their lives. It is not uncommon for me to feel that my relationship with individuals in this community is one of mutual acceptance and grace. A true gift of belonging. As I worked on this calendar design it occurred to me that the striped outfit of my son reminded me of the stereotypical clothing for incarcerated people. It feels fitting to me that the image of the innocent child offering a loving touch and gaze would identify with “the least of these.”
Below you will find a SPOILER list of all the snacks included. Do NOT read if you want to be surprised!!
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Croissant
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Mitai
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Bamba
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Kibbeh
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Tayto
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Malaco Gott & Blandat
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Sushki
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Nutella
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Kvikk Lunsj
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Mitarashi dango
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White Rabbit Candy
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Pampushky
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Kue Pukis
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Lokum
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Baklava
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Murukku
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Churros
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Krowki
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Choco pie
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Halo-halo
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Momos
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Strawberry
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Pretzel
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Hostess Cupcake
