“Each little picture glows and lives…”
In a review of a mini art exhibition, at a coastal art gallery, my mini original print was a favourite.
Small art to help charities and new collectors
Art galleries often run exhibitions which specify a theme or some other criteria for art to be eligible for submission.
Mini, or miniature art is not uncommon, though 'postcard' size is a regular condition.
These 'small art' exhibitions are embraced by small and large prestigious national galleries, and all sizes between. They're aimed at helping new collectors and people who haven't had the confidence to buy original art, those working to a budget, and the experienced can explore a lot of artists in one event.
All the artwork is usually one low price which keeps things simple, and helps buyers focus on the art, rather than worry about whether the price is a fair one or not.
Often, a percentage of each sale goes to a good cause. Sometimes these exhibitions have another element to add excitement: the artist's identity is kept secret. Everyone pays the same price, but some might end up with an artwork by a big named artist.
Altogether, these art exhibitions are a feel‑good event for everyone. Buyers get something precious for a small outlay and see the work of many artists new to them, a charity benefits, and both the gallery and artists secure a modest boost to their income.
Small is a size
In these events, the art must be no bigger than a set maximum size, which is often less than 15 centimetres (approx 6 inches) in both height and width.
This exhibition, where the review below was framed, was run by South Street Gallery in Scarborough, UK. The maximum size was on the smaller end – making the art worth describing as 'miniature'. 10 x 10cm / 4 x 4 inches was the challenge.
