Blossom On The Tree by by Kara Ashley Gilmore
Vincent Van Gogh believed that great art was the result of many small, detailed processes unified into a visibly singular space. Hendersonville’s Art MoB Studios & Marketplace, which regularly features more than 90 local artists, will put that concept on display May 5, along with wine and appetizers, when it presents a special exhibit of hors d’oeuvres-sized paintings.
“We have many talented artists in our first annual miniature show,” says Art MoB owner Michele Sparks. More than 20 are represented, including well-known finger painter Amy Perrier, a former Bold Life cover subject. Sparks says mediums will range from encaustic, pastel, and watercolor to traditional oil on canvas.
To be eligible for the juried show, pieces cannot exceed eight inches tall and eight inches wide, and some of the dollhouse-scaled works will be even littler. Working small can require a super-sized commitment from an artist, because it’s often more difficult to create grand impact when toiling on a tiny scale. Being more tedious to maneuver, little brushes can test an artist’s dexterity and patience. And, too, there’s less forgiveness of mistakes that might go unnoticed in a roomier format.
Pink Frills by Yvonne Park
“It does pose unique challenges,” says participating artist Megan Richard, a watercolor painter. However, the opportunities are great, as are the rewards. “The small format may not have the immediate visual impact of larger works … in small works, the artist can offer a more intimate experience, though, drawing one in to admire and appreciate the art.”
Gallery browsers will frequently step away from art to get a better, more panoramic view. But when confronted by a miniature, they usually do the opposite and close the distance — both spatially and psychologically. That can produce unexpected insights about perception, and delightfully surprising emotional responses.
Richard points out a practical benefit to downsizing the canvas, too. “Small works may allow more collectors to own an original piece of artwork, in terms of cost and design or spatial options.”
Art MoB Studios & Marketplace (124 4th Ave. E.) hosts an opening reception for the Miniature Juried Art Show on Thursday, May 5, 5-7pm, with wine and appetizers. Attendees can cast their votes for “Best in Show” and other awards. The exhibit runs through June 12. 828-693-4545. www.artmobstudios.com.
