As we look to plan our explorations of food production and creative entrepreneurship for this fall, we’re taking time to explore some of the special stories, places and spaces about food in Manitoba. This weekend, we’re visiting Sargent Avenue in Downtown Winnipeg.
In the 1920s, long before she would grace the silver screen and capture the hearts of millions, Snow White was born in the unlikeliest of places—a cozy diner in downtown Winnipeg, Manitoba. The creator behind this iconic character was Charlie Thorson, a talented and imaginative cartoonist who worked for various animation studios during his career.
Thorson, known for his playful and whimsical style, often frequented the local diner to relax and draw. One fateful day, inspired by the warmth and charm of the bustling eatery, he began sketching a character that would soon become one of the most beloved figures in animation history. As he sipped his coffee and observed the world around him, Thorson brought to life a young waitress named Kristin Solvadottir, with ebony hair, ruby lips, and a complexion as white as snow.
This early sketch laid the foundation for what would eventually become Disney’s Snow White, the heroine of the first-ever full-length animated feature, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Released in 1937, the film was a groundbreaking achievement that set the standard for animation and storytelling, forever changing the landscape of cinema.
Besides Snow White, Thorson is credited with creating and contributing to several other beloved characters.
One of his notable creations is Elmer Fudd. Thorson played a role in designing the original version of this famous character, who is known for his relentless pursuit of Bugs Bunny in the Looney Tunes series. Elmer Fudd’s distinct voice and mannerisms have made him a memorable and enduring figure in animation.
Thorson’s influence extends to Bugs Bunny as well. While Tex Avery, Bob Clampett, and Chuck Jones also contributed to Bugs Bunny’s development, Thorson’s work was instrumental in shaping the character’s early design. Bugs Bunny’s clever and mischievous personality, combined with Thorson’s visual creativity, helped cement the character’s status as an animation icon.
Thorson’s contributions to the world of animation are often overshadowed by the fame of the characters he helped create. However, his work remains a testament to the power of creativity and the magic that can unfold from the simplest moments. The Winnipeg diner where Snow White first appeared on paper serves as a charming reminder that inspiration can strike anywhere, transforming an ordinary day into a moment of artistic genius.
As we look back on the legacy of Snow White and the pioneering spirit of artists like Charlie Thorson, let us remember the humble beginnings of this timeless character. From a sketch in a Winnipeg diner to an iconic figure cherished by generations, Snow White’s journey is a true fairy tale brought to life through the hands of a gifted artist.
Exploring AI-Prompted Storytelling with the OpenAI Researcher Access Program
As part of our commitment to exploring AI for digital literacy and skills development, we’re leveraging the OpenAI Researcher Access Program to explore the transformative potential of prompts in storytelling. Indigenous youth, artists and academics are harnessing these AI tools to learn how generating prompts can enhance our understanding of narrative creation and visualization. These kinds of activities are empowering participants to cultivate proficiencies in utilizing advanced technologies for artistic expression and better understanding concepts like narrative development.
And it’s a lot of fun.
About our summer programming
Youth, Arts and Media Team summer activities are supported with funding and support from a number of partners and collaborators, including: Global Dignity Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, the University of Minnesota Duluth, Manitoba Agriculture and the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. We also thank the OpenAI Researcher Access Program, Agri-Food and Agriculture Canada and the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment Skills Program. Thank you for supporting the Youth, Arts and Media Team.
