Celebrating a Century of Kitsch and Americana on Route 66 at Drawn Studio

Route 66 is more than just a highway. It's a symbol of American freedom, adventure, and the quirky charm of roadside culture. This year marks the 100th anniversary of this legendary road, and Drawn Studio's retail entrance is joining the celebration with a nod to the era that made it iconic. Meet our newest addition: a vintage ornamental deer, painted in Drawn Studio green, a rich, nostalgic hue straight out of the 1950s automobile era. Because every great road deserves a little roadside character.

The Legacy of Route 66

Route 66, often called the "Mother Road," was established in 1926 and quickly became the main artery connecting Chicago to Los Angeles. Stretching over 2,400 miles, it carried millions of travelers through small towns, deserts, and cities, offering a unique glimpse into American life. The road became famous for its motels, diners, gas stations, and quirky roadside attractions, many of which embraced a kitschy style that was both playful and inviting.

The highway played a crucial role during the Dust Bowl migration in the 1930s and later became a symbol of post-war prosperity and the rise of car culture. Though officially removed from the U.S. Highway System in 1985, Route 66 remains a cultural icon, celebrated for its nostalgic charm and the stories it holds.

Roadside Attractions: The Soul of the Mother Road

No stretch of Route 66 was complete without its roadside characters — the giant statues, neon signs, and whimsical sculptures that beckoned weary travelers to slow down and stay a while. From the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma to the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, these landmark oddities weren't just decorations. They were invitations. A way of saying: something worth seeing is right here.

That spirit of playful, welcoming character is exactly what our vintage deer brings to Drawn Studio's entrance. Deer statues like ours were a staple of mid-century American lawns and storefronts — dignified, a little quirky, and impossible to walk past without a second glance.

Why Green? The Color of the Open Road

Drawn Studio green carries the weight of open landscapes and the optimism of a long drive with nowhere to be. In the 1950s, color was everything. Cars came in two-tone palettes that turned heads. Diners glowed in turquoise and coral. Even the humblest roadside stand got a fresh coat of something bold.

Painting our deer in that same spirit felt natural. It's a small act of joy, a wink to the travelers and wanderers who've always known that the best part of any journey is what you find along the way.

Come See It for Yourself

Whether you're a Route 66 devotee, a lover of mid-century design, or simply someone who appreciates a well-placed deer, we'd love for you to stop in. Our vintage greeter is waiting at the entrance, ready to welcome you the way all great roadside attractions do. With a little character, and the suggestion that whatever's inside is worth the stop.