Merry Clarkmas: An Illustrated Tribute to a Holiday Classic
This illustration series captures the chaotic, quotable, delightfully unhinged moments that make this film the crown jewel of holiday chaos — from flying squirrels and collapsing trees to Cousin Eddie in his… winter uniform. If Christmas had an energy drink, this movie would be it.
If holiday nostalgia had a smell, it would be pine sap, burnt-out Christmas lights, and whatever Aunt Bethany was cooking.
The Cast of Characters (and the Chaos They Bring)
Every illustration highlights the moments burned into our collective holiday memory:
“It’s a beaut, Clark!” — The tree is too big. Of course it is.
Aunt Bethany’s iconic Jell-O — Featuring that mysterious crunch.
The turkey that disintegrates on contact — Still iconic, still tragic.
Moose mug wisdom: Don’t hog the nog. Truly words to live by.
“Little full… lotta sap.” — Same energy as every hobby project I’ve ever taken on.
Cousin Eddie — The man, the myth, the bathrobe.
“Squirrel!!” — The scream that launched a thousand rewinds.
The RV — Still iconic. Still questionable.
Clark’s festive meltdown —The Hap-Hap-Happiest Christmas meltdown we all recite by heart.
Jelly of the Month Club — The true villain of Christmas.
These are the moments that make the movie what it is — chaotic, quotable, and rewatchable in a way few holiday classics dare to be.
Why Christmas Vacation?
Because no other holiday movie packs this much personality per square inch. Every frame is begging to be illustrated. Every character is a caricature in the best possible way. And the quotes? Endless. This film is basically a grab bag of visual gags, facial expressions, props, and side comments that demand to be drawn.
The Illustration Style
The approach for this series leans into:
expressive, character-first drawing
warm, slightly retro coloring
instantly recognizable poses and expressions
quote-driven scenes
the perfect amount of festive absurdity
It’s a set built for anyone who’s ever quoted this movie aloud… or can’t get through December without hearing “You serious, Clark?”
Interested in licensing custom illustrations?
If you want artwork that tells a story (holiday chaos optional), I license custom illustrations year-round.