bringing this art form into its rightful place in the 21st Century, providing spotlight and recognition for
the significant contributions of miniature artisans and to inspire a future generation to create, collect
and dream – in miniature!
So Darren traded in his suit, tie, briefcase
and monthly commuter rail ticket to Grand
Central Terminal for a cobbler’s apron and
opened a 850 square foot venue in a
co n v e r te d 1 9 2 0 s m o v i e t h e a t r e . Hi s
elegantly appointed space includes subtly lit
shadowboxes filled with items for sale
featuring the glorious works of renowned
artisans including: Bill Robertson, Craig
Roberts, AKA The Hairy Potter, Ichiyoh
Haga and others; a galler y space that
features museum-quality work s on loan
from artists on a rotating schedule, a
workshop where nationally recognized artisans conduct half-day and evening hands-on learning
experiences and space with tools and resources for miniature enthusiasts participating in an open
studio series. The venue also serves a meeting spot where miniature collectors and artisans host events
to show their treasures to friends, family, and members
of the miniature community over a cocktail and hors
d’oeuvres. This is not your typical dollhouse shop!
Ever the marketer, Darren launched his Rethink
Dollhouse™ national marketing campaign as an overall
theme for his business and to educate and inspire
consumers of all demographics on the wonders of fine
scale miniatures. The campaign focuses on beautiful
works in miniature that can be enjoyed not only by the
die-hard miniature collector, but all lovers of the
decorative arts. Darren is quickly becoming the
strong voice of miniatures; he serves as a Member of
the Board of Trustees and Artisans, Ltd. Enthusiasts
Nybelwyck Hall (Hudson River Museum) Photo Hudson River Museum
(IGMA.org), publishes articles in various publications
on various aspects of the miniature art form and is an invited lecturer at the Hudson River Museum in
Yonkers, New York where he will speak in September on the history of miniatures and tell the story of
Nybelwyck Hall, the 26-room dollhouse complete with 900 miniature objects, part of the museum’s
permanent collection.
In such a short time one man’s passion has served as an eye-opener to me and so many others about a
unique decorative art form that is often considered a child’s plaything or crazy Aunt Sally’s dusty
obsession. Through recognition and appreciation of these intricate, tiny treasures we can study the
vast world, rich with large cultures, themes, ideas, in microcosm, through fine miniature scale art.
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THE CONE - ISSUE #5 - SUMMER 2015