Miniatures

Size Matters

An exhibition of miniature paintings by members of the Watercolour Society of Western Australia. (Watercolourswa)

A miniature painting “is not a small painting but rather a life size painting in the little.” So said Samuel Cooper (1609-1672) one of the stars at the height of their popularity. A miniature is usually considered small enough to be held in the hand.

When Watercolours WA was invited to stage an exhibition at the WA Maritime Museum thoughts turned to the early settlers who first arrived at the Swan River Colony and how the only way to carry the image of their loved ones or their homes was through miniature paintings.

Although interest has waned since the introduction of photography in the 1820’s the art form has been kept alive by artists around the world, miniature art societies, and dedicated collectors of miniatures. Many prestigious Art Galleries hold and exhibit collections of valuable miniature paintings.

The Artists of Watercolours WA have risen to the occasion to revive this fascinating art form which will be on display in the Balcony Gallery at the WA Maritime Museum, Victoria Quay, Fremantle.