Tiny art shows have swept the nation—and now it's your chance to join the fun with a tiny creation of your own!
You may be thinking “What is a tiny art show”? A tiny art show is an exhibition that showcases small-scale paintings and drawings – miniature pieces full of creativity and detail. We’re putting our own spin on it by inviting makers of all kinds to submit small-scale creations in any medium to LPCPL’s first “Tiny Art Maker Show”.
“This show will encourage people to share and be recognized for their skills and talents,” said Julie Pitman, Community Learning Librarian at the LPCPL Exchange. “Traditional gallery art is not the only form of expression that should be celebrated in our culture. Creating tiny art may feel like a silly challenge, or it could be an opportunity to spark creativity.”
Pitman is looking forward to entries that may not be considered “fine art” and showcase a maker's skill and innovation.
“Entries made with unconventional materials are really fun, interesting and inspiring,” said Pitman. “This is an opportunity to encourage new and experienced makers to take advantage of the LPCPL Exchange makerspace equipment and tools. LPCPL supports learning for all ages as a valuable library service that enriches our community.”
If you are new to the LPCPL Exchange, stop by for a tour. Open hours are linked below.
Registration is now open, and you may sign up online or in person at the LPCPL Exchange. The suggested age range for participants is teens and adults.
Participants are encouraged to explore a variety of media and techniques such as sewing, woodcarving, needlework, or 3D modeling. While there are a few basic guidelines like all pieces must be smaller than 3” x 3” x 3”, and no toxic materials, glass or perishables, there is plenty of room for creativity and innovation.
If you're looking for inspiration, materials, or access to tools, stop by the Exchange on Saturday, May 31 any time between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. for the official Tiny Maker Show Kickoff. You’ll have the chance to brainstorm, plan and begin working on your project alongside other makers in a collaborative, supportive space. If you can’t make then, a second workshop is scheduled for Friday, June 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. At these open work sessions, a wide variety of materials will be available to create an entry for the show, ranging from origami paper to cardboard to a tiny printing press that was 3D printed. Both sessions are optional, and you are welcome to visit the Exchange during regular hours at any time to work on your submission. Staff are available to answer questions and provide support.
All completed artwork must be submitted to the LPCPL Exchange by Saturday, June 21 at 5:00 p.m. Please place your piece in the designated container, which will be provided.
Join us on Friday, June 27 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. for a special after-hours Tiny Maker Show Opening Reception. All submissions will be displayed in miniature gallery settings, and guests can enjoy tiny art activities, sample tiny appetizers and celebrate with fellow makers, friends and family. This will be the first event of its kind at the library, and we can’t wait to see you there!
If you’d like to share your creative process or finished project on social media, be sure to use the hashtag #lpcplmakes so others can discover and enjoy your work.
If you have any questions, please contact the LPCPL Exchange at exchange@laportelibrary.org or call (219) 344-5895.