Miniature Masterpieces A Big Hit

By Chris Howell NewsOn6.com

TULSA, OK -- The Gilcrease Museum has some huge artworks but it's the miniature masterpieces on display that are making a big impression. 

The name of the show is American Art in Miniature, paintings can be no larger than 9 by 12 inches, and sculptures can be no larger than 12 by 12 by 12 exclusive if the base.

"We have, in this particular show, around 220 works of art by 220 artists, so it's really a great variety of painting and sculpture," said Susan Patterson, Director of Fundraising Events, Gilcrease Museum. 

Tulsa artist Diane Salamon was at the Gilcrease giving a demonstration of her painting technique. 

"Typically I don't paint in miniature, so this is a challenge for me when I have to do a small painting. I think it's a good starter way for somebody who wants to start a collection, and if they like a particular artists work to take a small piece home and get acquainted with that artists work. It's also a little more affordable than some of the bigger pieces," said artist Diane Salamon. 

Paintings can be bought for as little as a few hundred dollars, but although they are little, they have a big impact. 

"It has the same impact on you as if you were looking at a larger piece, I think that any work that is small is so condensed down that the thought process is narrowed down to the point where the most essential part of the painting is in there," said Diane Salamon. 

In its sixth year, the show is growing, even if the artwork stays small.

"It's been phenomenal, in fact artists as well as our visitors are blown away by the quality of the work this year," said Susan Patterson,

American Art in Miniature runs through November 9 and the artwork will be sold November 6. 

For more information, visit Gilcrease Museum's web site.