The adage of good things coming in small packages has never been truer than at Tendoy Fine Art gallery, 35 E. Bannack, in Dillon, Montana. The co-op gallery decided to focus on miniature paintings for the holidays. The art of painting “in little” dates to medieval times with various definitions of what size qualifies. This genre has been prized by collectors for over 1000 years. Miniatures can be paintings, sculptures, drawings, or etchings. Victorian dollhouses often included framed paintings to scale. Examples of miniature works come in all artistic styles and subjects. According to Charlotte Quist, president of Tendoy, “Strictly speaking, a miniature should be under 25 square inches and be 1/16th of actual size. We haven’t been that strict”, she laughs, “but we are showing some fun smalls that we’ve enjoyed making.”
With the multitude of wall art available today and wall space at a premium in most homes, miniature art works have a decided appeal. Originals are generally more affordable and easier to hang in groupings without cluttering existing space. While a grouping might be a collection by the same artist, it can also be developed by theme and include multiple artists.
The miniatures at Tendoy Fine Art are displayed throughout the gallery along with other larger works available for sale. Customers are encouraged to assemble groupings that appeal to them or to just pick out that one special tiny piece that speaks to them for themselves or as a gift for someone else. Along with a wide variety of one-of-a-kind items for sale at the gallery, the miniature show is a must see during the holidays.
Also, at Tendoy Fine Art through December are works by Three Forks guest artist, Liz Chappie Zoller. Zoller’s Western-themed works include paintings, jackets decorated with original art, scarves, cups, and other creative items.
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