We are often asked, “What’s the story behind the Ninja Gnome?” Unfortunately, there’s not a short answer to that. In fact, there are two answers, so you decide on which story tells it best.
Our Story
The traditional gnome is known for bringing hope, luck and goodwill to gardens across the world. In 2004, Imagewest adopted an adorable gnome, even though we don’t have a garden, we believe the gnome’s spirit lives within the agency and the students. We know this all sounds a bit crazy, but the gnome quickly became known at the agency as, “The Imagewest Good Job Gnome.”
Each week the gnome is given a new caregiver who is recognized at the agency for a “good job.” Whether it is exceptional work on a project, an extra effort made or some special contribution to the team, the Good Job Gnome is given in appreciation and serves as an extra pat on the back.
It is an honor to receive the Good Job Gnome. After receiving the gnome, some students give speeches, cry in happiness or grin ear to ear. Then they personalize the gnome with custom clothes. So far, the gnome has sported hats, aprons, dresses, mustaches, glasses etc.
Long live the Good Job Gnome. Keep up the good work!
The Gnome’s Story
I am of a rare race of Gnome known as the Ninja Gnome. The Ninja Gnome is a descendant of the more common House Gnome. The Ninja Gnome originated in the heavy forest areas of Scandinavia and moved to the Iga and Koga Provinces of Japan early in the 15th Century. In Iga and Koga we lived amongst the ninja and trained in Ninjutsu. We applied the art of Ninjutsu to protect our animal brethren from unnecessary hunting and the traps of man.
After dedicating over half of a century of my life to Ninja wildlife preservation I decided to live out my lifelong dream and come to America. In 2004, my dream became a reality and my travels led me to Bowling Green, Ky. Looking for work, I met and befriended Heather Garcia, Imagewest’s, agency manager. She was very kind and helpful and quickly adopted me, but I think she really had a secret crush.
Over the years I have been teaching the students at Imagewest to use teachings of the ninja such as self-motivation and focus to create top-notch advertising, marketing, and public relations work.
I love my home and everyone at Imagewest!