The Ties That Bind

Carey shows off a chair by Elisabett Andrews.

Carey shows off a chair by Elisabett Andrews.

You’ve all heard me talk about my adventures in miniature with Lou, but lately I have also been sharing a bittersweet journey with my eldest daughter, Carey. You may know her for her bouncy blonde curls, effervescent smile, and charismatic personality, but you are about to get to know her on a much more personal level as she has been “training” to take over the curator position at the KSB Miniatures Collection.

Granted, this will not be for some time. In fact, every time I try to estimate when this transition will take place, the time frame becomes longer. Maybe ten years. Maybe fifteen. Maybe twenty . . . The truth is, I cannot even imagine not being as involved as I am with each and every miniature. But the realism is, I cannot bear the thought of the collection being without a loving caretaker if I were to no longer be able. Therefore, I must plan.

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Assistant curator Linda Young teaching my daughter Carey the intricacies of electricity in miniature.

My daughter has always had an affinity toward the collection, but she has of late been immersing herself into the miniscule details of the behind-the-scenes activities. Under the direction of assistant curator Linda Young, she’s polished tiny silver, wracked her brain to fix the smallest of light fixtures, and added her own artistic flair to existing room boxes and exhibits. I am proud and grateful that she shares my joy. Now, that’s not to say that I don’t hyperventilate when I see something that may not be exactly how I would do it, but that’s parenthood and that’s creativity in motion. I am blessed to be part of both with this child—this amazing woman who will someday be the curator and creative director of the KSB Miniatures Collection.

Many of you may already know Carey from Guild School, but if you have never met her, please introduce yourself. I’m sure she would love to meet you. If this post has gotten you thinking about your own collection, IGMA has resources that will help you plan ahead so that future generations will be able to appreciate your beloved miniatures. I believe all of us share the goal of preserving this fabulous art form.

Kayesignature

Posted on November 1, 2014 in Collecting Miniatures