Wednesday, December 10, 2008

The Mystifying World of the Magical Miniature

I have always had a fascination for miniature things. When I was a child, I met a woman named Ruth Ademite, who supposedly had the world’s largest collection of miniature books. One day when I was visiting, she gave me a miniature book of my own. But not to keep, mind you. She wanted me to write a special story just for her that she could add to her collection. Naturally, I was flattered by the request. But there was also a part of me that didn’t want to give the little book back. If I was going to write a story, I wanted to keep it for myself. This ignited a long “sermon” by my father on the true value of sharing, and how it was just as important for me to give away my stories, as it was to keep them. Eventually I filled the little book with a story and pictures, none of which I really remember now. And since Ms. Ademite passed away many years ago, I probably will never know. Could it have been a masterpiece? Doubtful. But it was my first sojourn into the giant world of miniature momentos.

When I was a little older, I became fascinated with the work of Robert Olszewski, who does astounding miniature people and scenes for Disney and other companies. It is the Disney variety that I really enjoy, as he incorporates so much detail and character into his pieces. And unlike the much larger WDCC pieces (Walt Disney Classic Collection), the Olszewski miniatures are perfect for people with a very limited space to display anything.

Recently, I came across another artist, William Wigan, whose work simply defies comprehension. His art is hand-carved with special tools and placed on the tiny head of a needle (as in the picture above of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves) or on the tip of an eyelash. Don’t believe me? Then click on the link below and watch a fascinating video on how this guy creates these one of a kind works of art, and how he gets $18k to $30k a pop.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYi458oI0-8

I would love one of these amazing items, but I’m afraid one of the cats would cough it up in a hairball. (And of course, the price doesn't help either.)

But that’s just me. What do you think of miniatures?

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm entirely impressed with the craftsmanship and the attention to detail. Two things I do not possess. Having one would be pointless even if I could throw that kind of money around. I wouldn't be able to see it even if I wore my glasses which I wouldn't want to do since it would prove that I am indeed over 40 and need bifocals.

Anonymous said...

Unbelievable! My eyes are starting to ache just thinking about it. Thanks for the link to the video.

Amy Lilley Designs said...

I've seen the piece done on this fellow who does the sculptures in the eye of a needle, the tip of a pin...AMAZING, beyond comprehension...and he was taunted as a child because he cannot read or write...but ALAS..wonder of wonders...beautiful Snow White and her 7 Dwarfs!!!

Anonymous said...

I love miniatures! We used to go over to Seattle to the Old Curiosity Shoppe near the ferry terminal. They had some really glorious miniatures under the glass counters. Little baskets and things such as on this post. Great post, by the way. Keep 'em comin!

Daisy said...

That is so amazing! It is hard to believe someone could have the skill and patience to make something so tiny and beautiful.

Anonymous said...

Aren't the seven dwarves miniature to begin with? I wonder what you call that -- the opposite of a double negative? A double miniature?

Roxy

Anonymous said...

OK, it has taken me almost a week to think of this, but I just realized that you're a New Jersey blogger. Therefore, I need to hit you up for some more serious homework than usual and a good cause (just words, not cash). My friend Deb at Jersey Bites (not to mention Bruce Springsteen, but I guess I just did) is trying to coordinate 100 NJ bloggers to run a post on Monday, December 15th to help out the Community Foodbank of NJ. As you may imagine, the Foodbank's supply is short and demand is huge in this tough economy. If you click the link to my Roxy's Best Of... New Jersey blog, I think it points you to Jersey Bites and how to sign up if you'd like to join us.

Thanks, Henson!
Roxy

Lilly said...

I love them. The attention to detail is extraordinary. I would love to go to an exhibition. I just wonder hot its possible - totally inspiring it it.

desperateblogger said...

oh i also have a post re this miniatures. amazing craftsmanship. there are actually microscopes in the exhibit hall where these arts are on display... the better to see you with my dear.. oooops! wrong fairy tale.

anyway, i have an award for you. i don't know if you do memes but i still want to give you the award.

http://www.pinaymomblogs.com/2008/12/blogs-i-love-award.html

Anonymous said...

Thanks for joining up with the Jersey bloggers to fight hunger...we just made it to 100 bloggers!

Roxy

Anonymous said...

Hahaha nice. Though I haven't imagined Snow White and the dwarves plus the witch to be that small ever.