By Page H. Gifford
Correspondent
The average art show that everyone is familiar with features pieces from 8” X 10” to door size and in some galleries and museums they are measured in feet, not inches, dominating large wall spaces. But the tiny art show at the Fluvanna County Public Library was on the opposite end of the spectrum from the large-scale behemoths, only measuring a scant 4” X 4”.
The tiny art show was sponsored by the Friends of the Library. The library provided kits, an item that became popular with different themes during the pandemic and continues to be a favorite activity. The kits included a tiny canvas (all had to be uniformed 4” X 4”), a set of paints, a brush, and an easel. But the beauty of this art show was the eclectic choices of its artistic participants including some members of the Fluvanna Art Association.
“I love how many people participated in the Tiny Art Show,” said Cyndi Hoffman, director of the Fluvanna County Public Library. “All of the works were wonderful and everyone is so talented.” Everyone of all ages and levels chose their path and medium. Some used the paints provided but others used pen and ink, watercolor, oils, acrylics, and even collage. Themes ranged from still life, landscapes, to abstracts. This was an opportunity for all artists to explore and create and for those who had never done anything artistic to indulge in the experience and exhibit.
The doll size show had 54 entries set up on a large table to the left of the entry to the main library. The works were staggered and tiny figures meandered in and out between the artwork. Some stood and viewed and studied them.
The artists signed their work but were unknown. The work was what stood out and the unique scale of the show is what drew attention. Many of the still lifes were skillfully executed with strong colors, including a basket full of apples and a half-peeled orange. The orange was reminiscent of a Renaissance subject with an impressionistic style. One abstract stood out with bold colors similar to Mark Rothko.
“We hope to make it an annual event,” said Hoffman. The show will be up through April 16.
