Photos provided by the Columbia Art League
Fans of miniatures will want to check out the latest show at the Columbia Art League. Open through April 7 is the annual Tiny Things art show, where all pieces are limited to 8 inches by 8 inches, including the frame.
It’s been an annual show for the Columbia Art League since 2021, says Kelsey Hammond, the league’s executive director. “I wanted to create the feeling of care and comfort in the gallery,” Hammond says, noting that the first year was right when we were first coming out of the worst of the pandemic. “I think small things make you feel like you need to care for/protect them and, honestly, I felt like (at the time) we needed something to dote on and adore.”
Plus, there’s something more accessible about small works. The price point is usually lower for buyers, Hammond says, and artists get an opportunity to make something different from their usual pieces.
That first Tiny Things show in 2021 wound up being one of the league’s better selling shows, she says. “It included more artists than we’d had in a long time, including new artists who hadn’t shown their work with us or ever,” Hammond says.
Past shows have seen a wide variety of work in different mediums, including painting, photography, woodworking, ceramics and drawing, she says. One of the pieces shown last year was a vase made of 217 tiny things, which were 7-inch by 3-inch pieces of wood, made by Tom Stauder. “It’s a fun show that feels both spontaneous and planned,” Hammond says. “It’s delightful.”
A reception for the show will be held from 6-8 p.m. March 10 and is free and open to the public. Hammond says it’s a fun opportunity to meet new people and artists in the community. And, if you’re looking for something new, you may just find it there. “You’re sure to find something special to take home if you’re in the market for a little artwork that can fit anywhere,” Hammond says. Even if you’ve never purchased original art before, she says finding a small piece is a great way to start. And supporting local artists is even better. “I always encourage people to buy art from local artists so that you’re having a direct impact on the people in your community,” Hammond says. “Our Tiny Things show is perfect for that!
Learn more at columbiaartleague.org.
