By Chelsea Reed
What’s new in miniature art for 2022? As we continue to venture into the year, exciting and playful art movements have emerged and are taking shape. Some are new, and some are refreshing takes on traditional genres. These movements have also entered the miniature art world. Let’s grab our magnifying lenses and take a closer look!
Ah yes, the classic look and feel of a portrait. It’s an art world staple that has captivated the attention of artists for millennia. Take for example this Renaissance painting of…a cat? Now, wait just a minute. This isn’t a historical painting. This is an art trend!
Animal lovers, rejoice! Artists are exploring the wild side of portraits this year, and minis are no exception. Some are doing it to express a form of symbolism. Others emphasize appreciation for our environment. And then there are artists who feature animal subjects simply for the fun of it. Clearly, this mixed media mini expresses the latter.
If you stop and think about it, art and science have one thing in common. Both disciplines cause us to pause and appreciate the world around us. As more people encounter the excitement of new milestones in space exploration, get ready to see the lines blur between science and art on miniature canvases this year. This whimsical acrylic painting of a traditional astronomer’s equipment beckons one to reflect on our place in the universe and where we are heading.
Back on Earth, people’s awareness of our amazing planet continues to heighten. Art patrons are becoming more mindful about the pieces they choose that express their love for the Earth. Expect to see powerful miniature art with traditional landscapes rising in popularity, such as this gorgeous gouache painting. as well as subjects of nature being represented in unusual ways, like an abstract.
This fun trend is popping onto the art scene with welcome timing. As bold colors are becoming popular again, art admirers this year are curious and ready to see the unexpected. Neon colors in miniature are the perfect way to change things up! Who wouldn’t want to see a bright burst of butterflies pop out at their desk or nightstand?
Another art trend that continues to rise is the incorporation of international art. African art in particular has garnered strong attention this year. To try out this trend, art design experts recommend collecting your African art from authentic sources for the best personal experience. This thoughtful watercolor painting is made by an artist who lives in South Africa.
Abstract art continues to gain momentum in recent years, and it’s leading up to a revival of an old art trend from Memphis, TN. You might remember this colorful trend popping up back in the 80s. Now known as the Memphis Revival, the Music City art movement of shapes and squiggles is a great way to collect minis for old-timers and newcomers alike.
Speaking of shapes, curves are the definition of modern for 2022, and they’re showing up in minis too! Forget those sharp straight lines associated with the ‘modern style.’ Curves are more forgiving, cozier, and friendlier too. Just look at this beautiful owl by the full moon. It’s painted with pastels and gold! Curves are a significant trend for living rooms and other gathering places.
The International Miniature Art Show may be ending, but there’s still time to take advantage of seeing all the new trends in this beautiful show. Make sure to act now before all the art gets sent back to the artists!
Missed the art show? Not to worry. There are still plenty of miniature treasures at Seaside Art Gallery year-round. What are you waiting for? A new adventure in art trends awaits you.
