Story: Britt R.

Photography: Britt R.

There are many ways for someone to express their creativity. From beautiful concertos, to inspirational landscapes on canvas, to photographs that remind us of the past, we all have the capability to be creative. This particular article focuses on something uncommon to the creative world but is gaining popularity. It is that of the Tiny Landscape.

Tiny Landscapes, also referred to as Fairy Gardens or Tiny Villages, are scenes comprised of miniatures laid out to form a type of scene. Some are of houses with small gardens, or miniature farms with tiny animals, while others depict scenes of beach life. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  For the interest of this article, we will be taking a look at the types that are displayed indoors.

To make one is simple and can become a personal project or one for the whole family. First, you need to decide what scene would you like to do? The next step would be to choose your holder; this can be anything from a glass vase with a large opening, to a square metal tray. Next decide on what miniature pieces you would like to use. From fairies, to animals, to classic cars, there is no limit. These pieces can be found at your local craft store, also there are some great choices with online retail sites. Though, one piece of advice, keep your receipt, it is not uncommon to get home and find that you bought too much to fill the holder your using or you may want to go back and exchange for different pieces to achieve a different look.

Once you have the items, time for the fun. Do not be afraid to use different mediums with the piece such as live plants or artificial greenery. One medium that works well is moldable sand, especially for the tiny farm, put a few miniature pigs in it and you have a tiny pigsty. Try using moving pieces like swings or windmills.  Or elements that use light.

What makes Tiny Landscapes fun and expressive? First, is that you can constantly change them. Add elements for changing seasons such as fall leaves or little pumpkins. Find that you have grown tired of the overall look? Pull out some of the pieces and refresh it with new miniatures or transfer it to a new holder. Second, given they are in holders; they can easily be moved and transferred to other locations. And finally it is fun for the whole family, whether in helping or even to create one of their own.