FORT PIERCE — Great things really do come in small packages, especially when artists are challenged to squeeze their creativity onto a canvas measuring 3 inches by 3 inches.
From delicate landscapes and detailed paintings to sculpted clay, glass and three-dimensional creations that bend the rules, the Seventh Annual Magnificent Miniature Masterpieces exhibition and silent auction will showcase just how much imagination can fit into 9 square inches.
Hosted by the Fort Pierce Art Club, the free event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the historic 111 Building, 111 Orange Ave., Fort Pierce.
The annual fundraiser brings together professional artists, emerging talents, community members and students as young as 7, all creating original works of art.
The event includes a silent auction with bidding open throughout the day to all.
Visitors can expect an assortment of oils, pastels, acrylics, mixed media, wire, sculpted clay and glass. The popular “Rule Breaker” category allows artists to push beyond the traditional canvas with unconventional three-dimensional interpretations.
“Magnificent Miniature Masterpieces is where our entire creative community converges,” said Jeanne Johansen, president of the Fort Pierce Art Club. “Whether you’re a collector looking for an extraordinary small treasure for the holidays, an artist looking to test your creative limits or a neighbor wanting to support arts education on the Treasure Coast, this is an unforgettable Saturday you won’t want to miss.”
Three guest judges will evaluate the miniature masterpieces Friday, Nov. 6, awarding 12 ribbons and honors, including Best in Show for adults and youth, Star Wall Power, Most Creative, Most Technical and Rule Breakers.
Visitors can browse the artwork and bid on their favorites throughout the day. An awards presentation will recognize winning artists, while the public also can judge entries in the Fort Pierce Art Club’s “Keep Fort Pierce Funky” membership contest.
The club is providing lunch for participating artists and vendors in the Underground from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The miniature masterpieces have found homes far beyond the Treasure Coast. Past auction pieces have been purchased for private collections, corporate desks and luxury yachts, with some displayed in institutions such as the Baltimore Museum. Winning bids have come from across the country and abroad.
Proceeds support scholarships, classroom art supplies for schools and free community programs, including its weekly Art on the Porch workshops. Founded in the 1950s, the nonprofit is the oldest continuously operating art club in St. Lucie County, promoting visual arts and arts education throughout the Treasure Coast.
For information, visit fortpierceartclub.org or call 772-359-2030.