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The Revival of Miniature Art
"Harbor Watch" by Wes Siegrist |
King Henry VIII and his court were ardent admirers of miniature portraits. These little jewels of the art world were treasured mementos of loved ones. They were also presented to prospective brides & husbands during the betrothal process.
The popularity of miniatures flourished in Europe & American until the 1850's. Photography was starting to be used and this gave people a cheaper alternative to having likenesses of their loved ones. Many miniature artists were forced to make a living by tinting photographs or creating larger portraits.
As a result, by the end of the 19th Century, there were few miniature artists still working. They decided that in order for their art to survive they needed to organize.
Two Revival Period miniature art societies were born in England in 1896. The Royal Society of Miniature Painters Sculptors & Gravers (RMS) is still in existence today. The USA counter part, The American Society of Miniature Painters in New York, NY was founded in 1899. Since this time, more organizations were founded and some have disappeared. Thanks to their efforts, the miniature art form has gained recognition and admiration among the collectors of today.
Miniature artists have expanded their subject matter, styles and mediums. The same fine art qualities that are found in larger works must also be used in miniature art.
The love of miniature art has expanded across the globe. It is easy to indulge yourself when collecting since it does not require much space and is easy to transport. They really are like beautiful little gems of the art world.
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Greetings!
This is such an exciting time of year for us as beautiful works of art arrive from all over the world for our show. |
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19th International Miniature Art Show
"Patriot Letters" by Janet Laird-Lagassee, watercolor | You are invited to one of the top miniature art shows. The show runs from May 1st to June 5th at Seaside Art Gallery. We usually have close to 600 original works of art from all over the world. As the art arrives, we will be putting it on our website for you to see. At the time of this message, we have already received over 350. The reception with the announcement of the awards will be on May 29th. Many of the artists will be in attendance for you to meet. It will be catered by The Pearl.
Wikipedia has a short article about miniature art and most of the artists listed participate in our show. Don't miss this fabulous event! |
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Congratulations to Rebecca Latham!
"Content - Young Wolf", watercolor
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The Maryland Deptartment of Natural Resources will be using Rebecca Latham's painting for their 2010-2011 Black Bear Conservation Stamp. The judging for the contest was held at the National Wildlife Visitors Center in Laurel, Maryland during the Patuxent Wildlife Art Show.
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Do You Like the Antiques Road Show?
Valley of the Conejos by Readio, oil |
What's in your attic? You can learn the estimated value of your items from professional appraisers similar to the Antiques Road Show at the Coastal Antiques Appraisal Fair on April 17. This will be held at the NC Cooperative Extension Center in Barco, NC. It is near the Currituck Airport on Hwy 158 and is only 45 minutes from Norfolk, VA. The admission is free, but the value estimates are $10. for each item or $25. for 3 items. There will also be dealers offering items for sale. Proceeds benefit the Whalehead Club, Outer Banks History Center & the NC Cooperative Extension. For more information, call 252-453-9040, www.whaleheadclub.org.
I will be there as an appraiser in fine art and animation art. Hope to see you there.
You can see more information about the illustrated painting on our shop at Ruby Lane. |
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Miniature paintings make demands. They invite close scrutiny and, en masse, draw viewers into their world. They are so minute and detailed, they generate a different perception...That's their attraction. You have to marvel at the skill.
The New York Times, Jan. 4, 1998 |
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We look forward to hearing from you,
Melanie & Everyone at Seaside Art Gallery |
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