The Little Things
Thank goodness for the little things. Yes, miniatures, but I’m talking about those fleeting moments that we sometimes don’t take notice of: an appreciative smile, an understanding nod . . . a sparkle in the eye. I was reminded of them recently at the Unveiling of the Russell Theatre Interior, an event at the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center to debut our newest commission.
I can honestly say I appreciate miniatures each and every day, but it’s not every day that I get to spend time with the artisans while they are making a piece—studying their skills and listening intently as they explain their artistry. Watching Scott Hughes craft a small piece of metal into a highly-detailed miniature desk lamp was awe inspiring; as was seeing Hiroyuki Kimura and his wife, Kyoko, roll clay into paper thin leaves in preparation for painting. Observing their process and technique is certainly witnessing art in motion, but seeing the love they have for their work as they create makes each piece so much more special.
Renée Derra and Kazuko Nakamura watch Michael Walton meticulously stain one of his handcrafted chairs.
Just as fulfilling was standing beside the artists gazing at their designs in the gallery, pointing out the nuances and reminiscing on its creation, as I did with Hanna Kahl-Hyland as we admired her distinctive fairy tale pieces. There were many of those moments at the unveiling celebration and I appreciated all of them.
Hanna Kahl-Hyland in front of one of several fairy tale vignettes she created for the KSB Miniatures Collection.
Experiences like those are just another reason why I love miniatures. Even though the artisans have all returned to their studios, I have constant reminders of our friendships and camaraderie. All I have to do is take a stroll through the KSB Miniatures Collection, where their art swells my heart, brings a smile to my face, and floods my mind with wonderful memories.
If I don’t mention it enough, allow me to thank every artisan who creates miniatures for their love of the art and for keeping this wonderful art form alive.
Artisans Francine Coyon and Pascale Garnier are astonished at Althea Crome’s textile work in miniature. Aren’t we all!