Danish flags fly proudly on the streets of SOLVANG...some five thousand miles west of Copenhagen. When the Kinkade family visited the "Danish Capital of America" right here in Santa Barbara Country, we found ourselves transported in spirit to the enchanting land of Demmark.

We strolled the lush, blooming streets of SOLVANG, past thatch-roofed inns and quaint half-timbered houses, savored the rich perfume of Danish pastry shops, sampled old-world cuisine, and admired the little wooden trolls and other Danish crafts in the gift shops.

I was enthralled by what I saw, and, so often happens, was moved to set up my easel and paint the town. It was a lovely, sunny day, and shadows dappled the tree-lined streets as I worked.

The old-world flavor of the town struck me as deeply romantic, so I made my SOLVANG into a tribute to my lovely wife, Nanette. If you look closely, you'll discover a sign bearing my wife's name as well as a number of hidden "N's" scattered among the houses.

My family has enjoyed the chance to travel together in Europe on occasion; what a pleasure it has been to discover this bit of the old country right here in my beloved California. I invite you to enjoy SOLVANG with us.