Tom Clark sculpted his first gnome in 1978, after reading a book on the wood spirits. The business went “through the roof,” William said, and Clark left Davidson in 1985 to be a full-time artist.

I didn’t win the election, but as one of the few actual humans made into a gnome figure, I have been set apart. Famous, if only briefly. Thanks to Tom Clark whose fame will endure. D.G. Martin ...