Miniature Art Societies and Organizations of the Revival Period
1896-present day

~ last update April 28th, 2008* ~

~ This color denotes group still exists ~

1896 | 1900 | 1930 | 1970 | 1980 | 1990 | 2000

1896-SM: The Society of Miniaturistshttp://www.britpaint.co.uk/ Founding date @May 1896.
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Presidents
Lord Ronald Gower - 1896-?
Alfred Praga - 1910
Exhibition Details and Notes
- Differed from the other society (Society of Miniature Painters which became the RMS) in that it possessed on it's Council experts, collectors and art critics vs. strictly artists. This included the leading expert of the day on miniatures, Dr. Lumsden Propert. The Society, @1910, sometimes combined its exhibitions with shows of old miniatures.
1896 - Opening Exhibition in November at the Grafton Gallery and included with their show 18th Century miniatures.
- 1895-1930's to 1985 (? ~ did this society continually exist or did it cease for a period?)
- 1985 Leslie Simpson becomes Director assuming control of the society from Kenneth Emsley. The SM is combined with other societies and moved to Ilkley, England.
- Website starts September 2002

1896-RMS: The Royal Miniature Societyhttp://royal-miniature-society.org.uk/ Founded in May 7th, 1896 by Alyn Williams(1865-1955)
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Presidents
Alyn Williams 1896-1898
William Blake Richmond 1899-1906
Alyn Williams 1907-1941
S. Arthur Lindsey 1943-
F.A. Goddard 1952-1957
Scott Shepherd 1957-1969
Raymond Lister 1970-1980
Suzanne Lucas 1980-2004
Elizabeth Meek 2005
Exhibition Details and Notes
- Originally named the Society of Miniature Painters and was comprised entirely of artists.
1896 - Inaugural Exhibition at 175, New Bond Street in October of 1896.
- 1896 becomes breakaway group who were part of the Prince of Wales circle, who moved away from the Society of Miniaturists founding their own group in September of 1896 entitled the Miniature Society. The RMS held inaugural Exhibition in the Modern Gallery.
1903 - 300 miniatures on display
- 1904: The Miniature Society were then granted the Royal prerogative by the Prince (as of 1901 - King Edward the 7th), officially recognizing the new society and giving the title The Royal Miniature Society (RMS).
1916 Exhibition at the Grafton Gallery
- The RMS mounted an exhibition in Dublin, Ireland.
-1921 Alyn Williams proposes an International Society of Miniaturists which does not come to fufillment.
- 1926 the RMS extended its welcome to other forms of miniature art. Recognition of this wider scope was officially confirmed when Sculptors and Gravers were added to its name by Royal Command of King George V.
1932 Exhibition held at Arlington Gallery
-1940 The Society's office and historical documents are destroyed by a bomb in WWII.
- 1980 Suzanne Lucas - was the first time American Artists were accepted into the annual show.
- 1980(?) Jane Blake is the first American miniaturist accorded signature status
- 1995 70 Associate Members and 80 Full Members
- Website starts January 2000
- As of 2007 the RMS has @250 members. The 2007 Exhibition included @700 miniatures.
- Patron: Her Majesty the Queen
- The Society has known several homes: the Arlington Galleries, from which it was removed by a bomb to the R.W.S. Galleries, thence from the Alpine Gallery to a steady haven with the Federation of British Artists at the R.B.A. Galleries. In 1971 the Federation moved to the Mall Galleries, opened by her Majesty the Queen, and in 1987 the Society transferred to the Westminster Gallery in rooms prepared by the Director of the Westminster Central Hall and the President. There it remained and celebrated its Hundredth Anniversary in November 1995 with a special Exhibition opened by the Earl of Gowrie. It hosted the first ever World Exhibition of Miniatures and showed the valuable Diploma Collection for the first time.
RMS Membership is limited to 110 members and associates who are elected by the Council on the merits of their work.
Definition(2007):
The RMS defines miniature solely by technique. At present the size limit is 6x4½ inches inclusive of framing.* Full members may exceed this rule but are requested to keep to the rules as much as possible. Scale is limited to 2 inches or less for human heads or single objects.
...Image size not to exceed 25 square inches. Sculpture may not exceed 8 inches in any dimension including the base.
*Upon its founding the Society of Miniaturists (RMS) recognized miniatures as large as 12x10 inches.

1899-ASMP: The American Society of Miniature Painters founded March 1899 in New York Isaac A. Jospehi, William Jacob Baer(1860-1941), Alice Beckington(1868-1942), Lucia Fairchild Fuller(1870-1924), Laura Coombs Hills(1859-1952), John A. McDougall(1843-), Virginia Reynolds(1866-1903), Theodora W. Thayer, Lydia Field Emmet, and William J. Whittemore
Presidents
Isaac A. Jospehi 1899-1902(?)
William Jacob Baer (?)1907-1912
Alice Beckington
Rosina Bordman (?)1965
Notes
- Premiere exhibition in January of 1900 at Knoedler Galleries, NY
1901 - 10 members/ 56 non-members exhibiting 150 works at the Knoedler Galleries, NY
1902 - Exhibition at the Knoedler Galleries, NY
-1902 The 4th Exhibition of 1902 was sent in its entirety to the PSMP Exhibition in 1903
1905 - Exhibition at the Knoedler Galleries, NY
1907 - 13 members/ 60 non-members exhibiting 118 works at the Knoedler Galleries, NY
1909 - Exhibition at the Knoedler Galleries, NY
1913 - 13 members/ 60 non-members exhibiting 120 works at the Knoedler Galleries, NY (266 works submitted)
-1914 the ASMP was invited to merge it's exhibition with the National Academy of Design
1916 - Exhibition in the Centre Gallery at the Academy, NY
-1916 the ASMP uses 4 display cases to house the exhibition for the first time at the Academy
1917 - @17 members(?) exhibiting at the Babcock Art Galleries, NY
1918 Exhibition held at Arden Studios, NY
1919 Exhibition at Albright Gallery in Buffalo, NY
- 27 members as of 1920
1929 Exhibition at the Grand Central Art Galleries, NY
1934 Exhibition at the Grand Central Art Galleries, NY
1950 - 50 works by 39 artists
-1950 The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum co-sponsored an exhibit commemorating the 50th Anniversary.
- Ceased existence in 1965 donated collection to the Smithsonian Museum's National Collection of Fine Arts

1901-PSMP: Pennsylvania Society of Miniature Painters (Philadelphia founded 1901)
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Presidents
Emily Drayton Taylor 1901-
Notes
1902 Inaugural Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
1903 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
-1903 Exhibition also displayed the entire ASMP Exhibition of 1902
1907-08 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
1910-12 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
1915-19 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
- 1916 Laura Coombs Hill earned the first Medal of Honor ever given by the Pennsylvania Society of Miniature Painters.
- 1917 Lucy May Stanton receives the Medal of Honor
1920 Exhibition at the Art Alliance Gallery in Philadelphia, PA
- 40 members as of 1920
1921 20th Annual Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
- The Royal Miniature Society, London participated in the 20th Exhibition
1926-27 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
1931 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
1935-40 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
1944 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
1946 Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
1951 - 50th Annual Exhibition in the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
- Gave 107 miniatures by members to the Philadelphia Museum of Art (1954)
- Ceased existence in ...(last noted date 1954)

1908- Philadelphia School of Miniature Painting: Founder Anna Margaretta Archambault (Lewis Rabbage files)
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1912-BSMP: Brooklyn Society of Miniature Painters Founded 1912
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Presidents
- 1912
Notes
1915 - Exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum in conjunction with Contemporary American Art
1919 - Inaugural Exhibition?
1922 Exhibition at the Hotel Bossart, Brooklyn
1929 - 11th Annual Exhibition with 93 miniatures
- Ceased existence in ... (?1936 last date found?)

1912-CSMP: California Society of Miniature Painters founded in Los Angeles in February 1912. Founders: Rosa Hooper,
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Presidents
- 1912
Notes
- 1911-1972 (collection resides in the Pasadena Historical Museum)
- 1933 The CSMP sent a miniature exhibition to the Century of Progress Exposition at Chicago, IL.
- Ceased existence in 1972

1912-CSMP: Chicago Society of Miniature Painters
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Presidents
Helene Lucille Stevenson - 1910
Carolyn D Tyler
Exhibition Details and Notes
1912 - Inaugural Exhibition
1914 - 39 artists 81 works 3rd Exhibition at the Art Institute
1915 - 4th Exhibition at the Art Institute
1917 Exhibition at The Arts Club
1920 Exhibition at the Art Institute (11 members)
1944 Exhibition at the Arts Institute
- Ceased existence in ...

1913-American School of Miniature Painters: Founded to fill the need for instruction in miniature painting that was lacking in art schools. In addition to the regular instructors Lucia Fairchild Fuller, Elsie Dodge Pattee, Maybel R. Welch, guest painters offered classes and criticisms.
@1908 Philadelphia School of Miniature Painting - Founder Anna Margaretta Archambault (Lewis Rabbage files)
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Instructors
1913-1916(?):
Lucia Fairchild Fuller
Elsie Dodge Pattee
Maybel R. Welch
Exhibition Details and Notes
- 1916 based in Manhattan, NY

1927?-PSMP: Paris Society of Miniature Painters
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Presidents
-
Notes
-

1931-MPSGS: Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society of Washington, DC http://www.mpsgs.org/ Founded in 1931 by Alyn Williams, Hattie E. Burdette, Benson Bond Moore, Clara Hill, Marian U.M. Lane, and Elizabeth Muhlhofer.
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Presidents
Alyn Williams 1931-1933
Hattie Burdette 1933-1934
Clara Hill 1935-1936
Friedrick V. Dachenhausen 1937
Elizabeth Muhlhofer 1937-1944
Edith Hill 1945-1948
Ruel P. Tolman 1949-1955
Mary Elizabeth King 1956
Annette Joyce Metcalfe 1957-1960
Eunice Hayden 1961-1963
Annette J. Lauer 1964
Mary Elizabeth King 1965-1967
Edith C. Mason 1968-1969
Kathryne C. Dimmitt 1970-1971
Louise B. Simons 1972-1973
Evelyn A. Gladstone 1974-1975
Edith Trifiletti 1976-1977
Bonita H. Valien 1978-1979
Thomas E. Lodge 1980-1982
Margaret T. Hicks 1983-1988
Molly W. Stern 1989-1991
Robert E. Best 1992-1993
John Thompson 1994-2008
Exhibition Details and Notes
1931 - at the Corcoran Gallery of Art
1932 - No Exhibition
1933-1935 - at the Corcoran Gallery of Art
1936 - No Exhibition
1937-1946 - at the Corcoran Gallery of Art
1947-1964 - at the Smithsonian Institution
1965-1996 - at the Arts Club of Washington, DC
1997-1999 - at Strathmore Hall
2000 - 240 artists 579 works at Strathmore Hall (206 members: 48 resident, 143 associate, 10 emeritus, 5 auxilary)
2001 - 282 artists 694 works at Strathmore Hall (190 members: 41 resident, 124 associate, 10 emeritus, 5 auxilary)
2002 - 298 artists 719 works at Strathmore Hall (207 members: 52 resident, 140 associate, 10 emeritus, 5 auxilary)
2003 - 262 artists 624 works at Strathmore Hall (217 members: 58 resident, 144 associate, 8 emeritus, 5 auxilary)
2004 - 244 artists 729 works at Strathmore Hall (213 members: 55 resident, 146 associate, 8 emeritus, 4 auxilary)
- Hosted the Third Worldwide Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature in 2004 at the Smithsonian Institution
2005 - 282 artists 680 works at Strathmore Hall (235 members: 64 resident, 180 associate, 8 emeritus, 3 auxilary)
2006 - 280 artists 712 works at Strathmore Hall (305 members: 67 resident, 211 associate, 5 emeritus, 4 auxilary)
- Website starts May 2006
2007 - 289 artists 699 works at Strathmore Hall (287 members: 73 resident, 223 associate, 5 emeritus, 4 auxilary)
Definition(2007): (see prospectus for full details)
...As a general guideline, the work should embody the spirit of a miniature.
...Image size not to exceed 25 square inches. Sculpture may not exceed 8 inches in any dimension including the base.
see the MPSGS website for framing guidelines

1962-WPA: http://www.artprollc.com/Whiskey%20Painters.htm Whiskey Painters of America founded in 1962 by Joe Ferriot, Tony Cross, Marc Moon & @11 other artists in Akron, Ohio
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Presidents
Joe Ferriot 1962-1972
A.H. Don Settle 1972-1980
Louie Mong 1980-1988
L.J. Tony Cross 1988-2007
Notes
- Website starts May 2003
- Club Room of the Akron Society of Artists houses the permanent collection (215 works as of 2007?)

1970-MASNJ: Miniature Art Society of New Jersey founded Jan. 21, 1970, New Jersey
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Presidents
Bede Zel Angle 1970-1972
Marilyn Brill 1972-1973
Vivian Fikus 1973-1975
John Barnwell 1975-1980
Robert J. Humphries 1980-1981
Pat Longley 1981-1985
Frances Luben 1986-87
Kathy Murphy 1987-1988
Joan Schramm 1988-89
Pearl Mason 1989-1993
Exhibition Details and Notes
- The MASNJ and its founder Bede Zel Angle conceived and adopted the 1/6th scale and 24 square inch surface rules after general discussion among the officers and membership. The rules were established as a competitive basis for artwork in miniature.
1971 - 159 artists 705 works at the Garden State Plaza
1972 - ... artists 700-800 works at the Garden State Plaza
1973 - ... artists 700-800 works at the Nutley Savings & Loan Bank
1974-1984 pending details
1985 - ... artists 833 works at a gallery in Verona, NJ (most exhibitions held here)
- At its peak in the 1980's the MASNJ had @300 members
@1985-1988 The MASNJ annual exhibition cooperatively competed with the Papermill Playhouse Miniature Art Exhibition which lasted until 2005.
- Ceased existence in 1993
- January 2004 a new MASNJ is "formed" by Maria and Clay Coutinho with an inaugural exhibit in Colts Neck, NJ. Future exhibits are held at the World Gallery in New York. An issue occurs in 2007 that pretty much dissolves the group.

1971-CMAS: Colorado Miniature Arts Society: founded @1971
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Presidents
Notes
- Ceased existence in ... (?1977 last date found?)

1974(?)-NMS: National Miniature Art Society founded in ...La Luz, New Mexico
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Presidents
Exhibition Details and Notes
1974-1990(?)
- Ceased existence in ...

1974-MASF: Miniature Art Society of Florida http://www.miniatureartsocietyofflorida.com/ & http://www.miniature-art.com/ founded 1974 by Bede Zel Angle and 23 artists(mostly students): Jane Blake, Rudy Blucke, Patricia Davis, Mary Engstrom, Helen Pierson, Alex Rice, Louise Ryan, Laura Schoefer and Helen Tooker.
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Presidents
Bede Zel Angle 1974-1975
Dorothy F. Curtis 1975-1976
Majorie Woodhouse 1976-1978
Marian E. Harding 1978-1980
Laura P. Schofer 1980-1982
Marion Simonds 1982-1984
Doris M. Liverman 1984-1986
Sarah Heyward 1986-1988
Leslie Starke 1988-1990
Kay Petryszak 1990-1992
Jean M. Boyers 1992-1994
Denver Boyers 1994-1996
Alma L. Wensley 1996-1997
Jo Webber 1997-1999
Carol B. Curtiss 1999-2001
Denver Boyers 2001-2002
Charles W. Curtis 2002-2003
Carol B. Curtiss 2003-2006
Bob Fritz 2006-2008
Life Members
Rudy Blucke*
Denver Boyers
Charles W. Curtis*
Jeanne Dunne
June Baumgardner Gelbart*
Doris M. Liverman
Kay Petryszak
Laura Parker Schoefer
Arthur Schroeder*
Christopher Still
Lillian Alford Stroud*
Kelly Towne*
Jo Webber
Beatrice "Bappy" Wise
*deceased
Exhibition Details and Notes:
1975 - 84 artists 260 works at the Florida Gulf Coast Art Center - (Invitational show only)
- "Small Talk" begins publication under Helen Pierson
1976 - 200 artists 450 works at the Florida Gulf Coast Art Center (75 members)
- start of the MASF Permanent Collection
- start of scholarship program
1977 - 135 artists 450 works at the Kapok Tree Inn ($600 in awards)
1978 - 250 artists 550 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (Joan Willies moves to FL and becomes international contact)
1979 - 172 artists 538 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (175 members)
1980 - 187 artists 544 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (200+ members)
- 1980 The above exhibition additionally featured 25 foreign entries from members of the RMS
1981 - 198 artists 657 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (227 members)
1982 - 210 artists 650 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (227 members)
- Pat Longley was the first true "miniaturist" judge.
1983 - 219 artists 808 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (300 members)
1984 - 200 artists 694 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (350+ members)
1985 - 250 artists 800 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (@400 members)
- start of collegiate scholarship program
1986 - 268 artists 900 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (@400 members)
1987 - 229 artists 844 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (@400 members)
1988 - 239 artists 763 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (@400 members)
1989 - 245 artists 795 works at the Kapok Tree Inn (@400 members)
1990 - 258 artists 945 works at the St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts (@400 members) (15th Anniversary)
1991 - 212 artists 609 works at the Summit Executive Suites (@300+ members)
1992 - 226 artists 691 works at the Belleview Mido Resort Hotel (@300+ members)
1993 - 255 artists 721 works at the Belleview Mido Resort Hotel (@400 members)
1994 - 211 artists 606 works at the Belleview Mido Resort Hotel (@400 members)
1995 - 251 artists 740 works at the Belleview Mido Resort Hotel (@400 members) (20th anniversary)
- VHS Timeless Treasures is introduced
1996 - 258 artists 803 works at the Belleview Mido Resort Hotel (@400+ members)
1997 - 270 artists 896 works at the Belleview Mido Resort Hotel (@400+ members)
1998 - 245 artists 782 works at the Belleview Mido Resort Hotel (@400+ members)
1999 - 246 artists 812 works at the Belleview Mido Resort Hotel (500 members)
2000 - 281 artists 878 works at the St. Petersburg Museum of Art (500 members) (25th anniversary)
- Catalog of the Permanent Collection is published
- Website starts May 2000 (new domain website and update February 2006)
2001 - 283 artists 860 works at the St. Petersburg Museum of Art (@500 members)
2002 - 308 artists 889 works at the Dunedin Fine Arts center (@500 members)
2003 - 273 artists 850 works at the Gulfcoast Museum of Art (483 members 12/2003)
2004 - 260 artists 891 works at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art (@500 members)
2005 - 252 artists 805 works at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center (393 members 12/2005) (30th anniversary)
2006 - 253 artists 887 works at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center (353 members 9/2006)
2007 - 257 artists 861 works at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art (363 members 5/2007)
2008 - 235 artists 829 works at the Gulfcoast Museum of Art
- As of 2008 the MASF has awarded over $90,000 in scholarships to 90 students.
Definition(2008):
1. Miniature paintings and sculptures are fine art on a small scale, with minute attention to detail, which can be enlarged or withstand close inspection without revealing it's faults.
2. Use as a guideline (not a rule) the following for a general definition of small scale:
- A representational subject should be no larger than 1/6th of its actual size.
- Exceptions:
• (a)Subjects too small for portrayal in 1/6th or smaller of its actual size, may meet the spirit of a miniature if the work meets the above definition of miniature art.
• (b)Non-representational work such as abstracts or surrealism may meet the spirit of a miniature if all other factors in the definition of miniature art are met.
3. Image size not to exceed 25 square inches. Sculpture may not exceed 8 inches in any dimension including the base.
see the MASF website for framing guidelines

1976-OMAS: http://www.oceansideartscouncil.com/ Oceanside Miniature Art Society (Canada) ~The Oceanside Community Arts Council (OCAC) founded in 1976
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Notes
- (appears to be a loose association or simply a show and not a formal society?)

1978-MMAS: Montana Miniature Art Society, Inc. founded in 1978(?)(Jack Akerstrom)
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Presidents
Jack Akerstrom (?)
Notes
-(?)1978-1994(?)
1978 inaugural exhibit
1994 at the Frame Hut Gallery Billings, MT
- Ceased existence in ...

1982-HS: http://www.art-in-miniature.org/hilliard.htm Hilliard Society founded in early 1982 by Sue Burton and Rosalind Pierson. Sue Burton was the executive secretary. A Council was formed in October 1992 and Sue Burton officially named President then.
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Presidents
Sue Burton 1982-1996
Cdr. Geoff Hunt RN 1996-2001
Heather O. Catchpole 2001-2005
Rosalind Pierson 2005-
Exhibition Details and Notes
1982
-(@40 members 1982)
- The first newsletter was published in June.
1983-1999 pending details
2000 - 144 artists ... works at the Town Hall, Wells
- Society had 272 members in 2000.
- Sculpture included and young peoples section
- Website starts August 2000
2001 - 147 artists ... works at the Town Hall, Wells(@300 members)
2002 - 141 artists ... works at the Town Hall, Wells(20th anniversary)(@300 members)
2003 - 148 artists @500 works at the Town Hall, Wells
2004 - 150 artists @500 works at the Town Hall, Wells
2005 - 136 artists @500 works at the Town Hall, Wells
- Russian Laquer boxes added to exhibit
2006 - ... artists @500 works at the Town Hall, Wells
2007 - 121 artists @500 works at the Town Hall, Wells (25th anniversary)
- Society had @200 members in 2007
- The young peoples category is discontinued.
Definition(2008):
- A high standard of draughtsmanship and composition.
- Mastery of miniature technique in chosen media and palette.
- No subject larger than life, portrait head no larger than 2" (5cm).
- Generally, paintings submitted should be no larger than 5" x 7" (12.5cm x 17.5cm), inclusive of framing. (35 sq inches, or 24 inches where dimensions are added together inclusive of framing). 3D work must be no larger than 8" (20cm) in any direction.
3D work size increased from 6" to 8" in 2008.
see the HS website for framing guidelines

1983-CPA: Founded 1983 in Dallas, Pennsylvania with about ten members including: Melleray Thompson,
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Presidents
Sue Hand (?)
Jim Rogowski (?)2000 - 2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
- Forms Yahoo Club September 24th, 2001 which closes one month later from lack of participation.
- @1996 Exhibitions held at the Waterlily until 2007 when the venue changes to The Widmann Gallery, Kings College in Wilkes Barre, PA.
@2002 - 444 works in the show
- Unique in that we have a size restriction for our work to be smaller than 3" X 5". With this in mind we have become one of the societies with the smallest paintings. We only accept painting medias or other non-traditional medias handled in a painterly way. Our members paint in the tradition of miniaturism following the belief that any subject suitable for a larger work may also be used to create a masterpiece in miniature. Our membership is by invitation only.

1985-MAA: http://www.miniatureartistsofamerica.org/ Miniature Artists of America founded in 1985
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Presidents
Laura Parker Schoefer 1988
Kay Petryszak 2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
1988 - Inaugural Exhibition in June at the Arts Club of Washington DC
- Traveling Exhibit (TE) started in 1989
- @109 Sustaining Associate members in 1988
- 19 artists 163 works in 1988
1989 Public exhibition in March at the Color Works Club, Hilton Head, SC
- @25 living signature members in 1991
- @36 living signature members in 1991
- @44 living signature members in 1992. The MAA showed the following membership at the end of 1992: Sustaining Associates and others - 120; Candidates' Circle - 51 (those who have met the requirements for Signature Status): Signature Members - 45; and Honorary Members - 2.
- @46 living signature members in 1994
- TE went to Japan in 1998 as part of the Winter Olympics
- 2000 TE featured in the 25th MASF Exhibition at the St. Petersburg Art Museum (FL) as well as the 2nd WFM Exhibition in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.
- Website starts March 2005
- TE comprised of @48 works in the display as of 2005-2007
- @82 living signature members in 2007
Definition: (From 1995-96 WFM Notes)Miniatures are not simply "small paintings". They differ because of the delicate detail skillfully executed by the artist. The techniques of miniature art are meticulously handled and the workmanship flawless. The works sometimes defeat the spectators belief as to what is possible for the artist to create in such a small space. These paintings referred to by the 15th century artist, Nicholas Hilliard, as "jewels of the arts" are best examined not only with a magnifying glass but also with a jeweler's loop, just as one would examine a fine diamond.

1985-ASMA (NSW): http://www.asma-nsw.com/ Australian Society of Miniature Art Inc.(New South Wales) founded by Janine Bravery OAM in July 1985. (The initial impetus came from a chance meeting in Paris in 1983 between Janine and Lynee Zajicek, a member of the Cider Painters of America) Others: Les Woollcott,
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Presidents
Janine Bravery OAM 1985
Philippa Stewart-Hall
Madeleine Szymanski 1995-1997
Lyn Hess 1999
Jenny Burgess 2007
Joe Steinbusch 2008
Exhibition Details and Notes
- The first Australian Miniature Society
1986 Inaugural Exhibition
@ 100 members as of 2000
Definition: The actual art work must not exceed 100 square cm (10cm x 10cm) or any variation under this size (e.g. 12m x 8cm). The 1/6th scale, that is 1/6th the size of an object or person in nature, has not been adopted by this society, but the "spirit of miniaturisation" must always be maintained.
A miniature can convey all the beauty and power of a larger work of art but has the added appeal of being a particularly personal object. The viewer must view the work at close range to obtain a full appreciation of both the image and technique. The miniature has always had a feeling of preciousness associated with it due in part to the fact that it can usually be held in the palm of your hand.

1985-GMAS: Georgia Miniature Art Society, Inc. founded in Feb. 1985 by Irene Kemp, Jill Pickenpaugh, Judy Bobula,
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Presidents
Jill Pickenpaugh (?)
Irene Kemp 1987
Exhibition Details and Notes
-(?)1985-1998(?)
- 1985 inaugural exhibit? Atlanta, GA
1986 Exhibition with works from 200+ artists
1989 Exhibition 190+ artists at Marietta-Cobb Fine Arts Center (170 members)
1990 Exhibition held at the Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art, Atlanta, Georgia
- 1992 @ 200 members
1993 Exhibition at Gallery 300
- Ceased existence in ... (?1997 last found date?)

1986-SLm: http://www.societyoflimners.co.uk/ Founded 1986: The Society of Limners was founded by Elizabeth Davys Wood MBE
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Presidents
Elizabeth Davys Wood MBE 1986(?)
Michael Pierce 2007-
Exhibition Details and Notes
-(140 artist members and 20-25 friend members as of 2000)
2006 - 20th anniversary show
- Website starts June 2006
2007/08 - @140 members showing @300 works
Definition (2007): Miniatures should be painted to a scale of 1/6th life size or less. With regard to small objects such as insects and flowers this rule is flexible so long as the spirit of a miniature is retained in the work. i.e. the traditional method of stippling and hatching. Doll's house paintings should be 1/12th life size. In portrait miniatures, the head must not be larger than 2 inches [5 cm] including hair, wig, or hat. Faces and hair should be stippled and hatched, clothing may be painted more freely.
The 2 inch [5 cm] size rule also applies to buildings, still-life objects and silhouettes.
see the SLm website for framing guidelines

1989-ASMA(Qld): Australian Society of Miniature Art Inc.(Queensland) Founded by Marilyn Peck at the invitation of Janine Bravery OAM of the ASMA (NSW). Lady Hickey, Patron.
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Presidents
Marilyn Peck 1989-
Valerie Anderson 1996-1997
Marion Winter 1999
Exhibition Details and Notes
1988 Inaugural Exhibition
1989 Exhibition in Darwin's Framed Gallery, Nothern Territory
1990 Exhibition in Darwin at the Gold Coast City Art Gallery, Nothern Territory
1994 1st International Exhibition at the Gold Coast City Art Gallery with entries from overseas societies.
1996 After several digital art submissions the ASMA(Qld)becomes the first society to accept computer art in miniature.
1998 Exhibition in Darwin, Nothern Territory
- 1998 Hosted the National Conference and Exhibition for all Australian Societies
-(@100 members 2000)
2005 -12th International Awards and Exhibition at the Gold Coast Regional Gallery
- Ceased existence in 2006
Definition: The image size must not exceed 100 square centimetres, or 16 square inches. The society also requires that there be some miniaturisation of realistic subjects, that is , they must be rendered less than life size. The accepted criteria for judging any work of art would apply. As well, the miniature can be decorative, be able to bear close scrutiny, display finely detailed work, and brilliant, gem-like colours.

1988-NMMAS: http://www.rfal.org/ The New Mexico Miniature Arts Society was formed in 1988 as a part of the Roswell Fine Arts League.
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Presidents
Exhibition Details and Notes
1988
- Website starts April 2000 with new domain and update December 2006
2007 - 16 artists 43 works at the Roswell Museum and Art Center

1992-ASMA(VIC): Australian Society of Miniature Art (Victoria) formed when Noela Patane, an ASMA (Qld) member moved to Victoria. Founding members: Noela Patane, President; Tony Woollcombe, Vice-President; Ivan Dinsdale, Treasurer; and Lesley Freeman, Secretary. Others: Irene Kerr, and Maureen Wilkinson. Rae Harris RMS, Patron.
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Presidents
Noela Patane 1992
Sheila Slicer 1995-1998
Roy Mead
Lesley Freeman 2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
1992 Inaugural exhibition held at the Mulgrave Gallery with ASMA (TAS)
1993-1995 Exhibition held at the Mulgrave Gallery
- 1997 Hosted the National Conference and Exhibition for all Australian Societies
Definition:Painted area not to exceed 100 sq. cm. (10cm x 10cm) Overall frame size not to exceed 20cm x 20cm

1992-MASB: Miniature Art Society of Bangladesh (Founders Khalid Mahmood Mithu and his wife Kanak Chanpa Chakma)
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Presidents
Exhibition Details and Notes
- Inaugural exhibition in 1998 with @200 artists
- Ceased existence in ...

1992-ASMA(TAS): http://www.jobfuturestas.com/asma/ Australian Society of Miniature Art (Tasmania) founded in April 1992 by Bernadette Conner OAM with support from Janine Bravery OAM. Others: Joerg Andersch, Edna May Bailey, Clarice Cashman, Enid Deal, Joan Humble, Keith Johnston, Margaret Kench, Dawn Ransley, Kay Bennetto Thiessen, Les Woollcott and Lady Sallie Ferrall, Patron.
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Presidents
Bernadette Conner OAM 1992-2000
Joan Kelly 2000-2008
Exhibition Details and Notes
1992 Inaugural exhibition held at the Hibiscus Gallery in April with all four Australian Societies participating making it the largest collection of miniatures ever exhibited in Australia. - @80* artists 297 works at the Hibiscus Gallery, Hobart
1993 - @129* artists 510 works at the Hibiscus Gallery, Hobart
- @70 members as of 1993
1994 - @102* artists 370 works at the Hibiscus Gallery, Hobart
- 1994: The 1st Australian National Conference of miniaturists held in Hobart in conjunction with a 3rd combined exhibition of all four AU societies.
1995 Exhibition and Conference held at the Burnie Regional Gallery in Tasmania.
- 1995: The 2nd Australian National Conference of miniaturists held in Hobart in conjunction with a 4th combined exhibition of all four AU societies.
1996 - @88* artists 333 works at the Hibiscus Gallery, Hobart
1997 - @62* artists 227 works at the Hibiscus Gallery, Hobart
1998 - @58* artists 231 works at the Hibiscus Gallery, Hobart
- 1998 ASMA (TAS) exhibited in Nagano, Japan "Small Pictures Great Harmony" exhibition
1999 - @45* artists 183 works at the Hibiscus Gallery, Hobart
-(80-90 members as of 2000)
-2000 Hosted the 2nd World Federation of Miniaturists Exhibition in Tasmania.
- Website starts June 2006
(90 members as of 2007)
-2008 Host Society for the 4th World Federation of Miniaturists Exhibition in Tasmania.
* @number of artists is referenced since some artists contributed works via mulitiple societies.
Definition (2007): The definition for the Tasmanian Society is that the work should be a maximum of 100 sq. cm (10cm x 10cm) or smaller. Although the Society has not formally adopted the 1/6 scale rule, that is that the subject must be 1/6 of the size it is in nature. The "Spirit of Miniaturisation" must always be maintained including use and application of colour.
see the ASMA(TAS) website for framing guidelines

1992-MASSA: http://www.miniatureartsocietyofsa.co.za/ The Miniature Art Society of South Africa founded in 1992 at the instigation of Charmian Kennealy and Jeff Sochen.
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Presidents
Hazel Thompson 2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
- (@90 members 2000)
- Website starts January 2007
- (@100 members 2007)
2007 - ... artists 108 works
- Definition (2007): Traditionally, the only size agreed upon internationally in contemporary miniature art is that the work should be "hand-held". Subject matter is usually intimate and delicate, being rendered with fine and small brushstrokes in order to accentuate detail. Vibrant, intense colour is typical in a painting. The exact sizes, all small, differ throughout the world. Let our South African Society offer you the following guidelines: A drawing, painting or sculpture must adhere to the one/sixth guide. This means that a human head approximately 228mm high must be rendered 38mm or less; a rose which is 120mm should be depicted as 20mm or less. These measurements are acceptable world-wide.
-Small subjects which do not lend themselves to the one/sixth rule must be rendered "in the spirit of miniaturism". Here the discretion of the selection committe will apply. Abstract works should be harmony with the delicate spirit of miniaturism. Importantly, the signature should be neat and very small. Sculpture, which must be of lasting materials, should fit within a 170mm cube, including the base. Prints of any technique must be hand-pulled and of a numbered series. No jewellery, crafts, computer or photographic techniques are acceptable. Silhouettes and collages are permitted
see the MASSA website for framing guidelines

1995-WFM: http://www.worldfm.org Founded Nov. 10, 1995
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Exhibition Details and Notes
1996:1st Exhibition at Westminster Central Hall, Story's Gate, London, England - hosted by the RMS on their 100th Birthday in conjuction with their regular exhibition (14 societies with 2300+ works) The 300 RMS Artists exhibiting 1,156 miniature works; 470 miniaturists from twelve Miniature Art Societies from around the world exhibited 934 works; twelve Independent miniaturists exhibited 35 works; and 49 artists from the Russian Avit and Piershana collections and the Firebird Russian Arts schools exhibited 93 exquisitely decorated lacquered boxes.
- MASF is the first overseeing body 1996-2000.
- assisted with the Olympics/ Japan exhibition "Small Pictures ~ Great Harmony" (1800+ works from 271+ artists)
2000: 2nd Exhibition was held in the Town Hall in Hobart, Tasmania - hosted by the ASMA TAS (15 societies, 471 artists exhibiting 837-841 works. Also exhibited were the 203 miniature works by Australian miniaturists that were included in the published book, and the traveling exhibition of the Miniature Artists of America.)
- Website starts February 2002
- The Hilliard Society assumes oversight 2000-2004. Sue Burton acting president until her death in 2003 when Caroline Hayes took over as acting administrator. (20 societies in 2004)
2004: 3rd Exhibition Washington, DC (Smithsonian) (13 member societies/ two guest socities 1,127 works)- hosted by the MPSGS Joan Kelly of ASMA TAS assumes leadership (14 member societies as of late 2004)
2008: 4th Exhibition Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Stated Goals of the WFM:
1. To encourage newsletter exchange of each society.
2. To encourage educational materials exchange.
3. To gather information on exhibitions and workshops.
4. To collect historical background on each society.

1996-IMAS: The Israel Miniature Art Society founded late 1996 by Jacques Heller
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Presidents
Jacques Heller 2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
- (@100 members 2007)
Definition: Paintings: maximum image size 9 X 9cm within a frame no larger than 15 X 15cm (10 X 10cm is accepted if the work was created before 2005). Wooden frames only accepted. Works on paper must be framed with glass.
Sculptures: maximum size 7.5 X 7.5 X 8cm.

1999-Turner School of Miniature Painting: http://miniaturepaintings.mysite.orange.co.uk/ Norfolk, England founded in 1999
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Notes
- Founder: Cyril Turner - 1999-2007+
School was founded to promote Original Miniatures (done from life vs. copies)
Definition (2007): Miniatures are to be painted in a diminutive scale to the highest standard of excellence required to achieve intricate detail and fineness appropriate to their style and medium, and by working to the smallest scale considered suitable to represent the subject. The School encourages the development and use of specialized individual techniques. It requires archival quality bases, painting surfaces and the finest quality Artists’ Extremely Permanent grade materials to be used at all times, These requirements are supported without exception by the highest professional and ethical standards.

2000-NCSAM: http://www.sierraartistsgallery.com/miniature.htm The Northern California Society of Arts in Miniature founded 2000 Mariposa, Ca
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Presidents
Elizabeth Specht (?)2005-2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
-

2001-CSMPSG: Canadian Society of Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers
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Presidents
Mary Louise Leach(?)2001-2004
Exhibition Details and Notes
- Inaugural exhibit 2001?
- Ceased existence @2004-6?

2004-MASWNY: Miniature Art Society of Western New York
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Notes
- April 2 - May 1, 2004 - Premier Exhibition
- Ceased existence in 2004?
- This exclusive group of artists to showcase the proven appeal of the exciting world of miniaturism. Artists John Yerger and Richard Kersting formed the Society in 2003 upon realization that a miniaturist art group did not exist in Western New York or even New York State. The Society is limited to ten invited members who follow the standards of contemporary miniaturism shared by a small number of organizations in the U.S. and abroad. This premier exhibition includes eight charter members: Joe Eger, Bernadette Franklin, Jose Fuentes, Richard Kersting, Robert Masak, Coni Minneci, Vicki Vitale, and John Yerger.

2005-STMAS: South Texas Miniature Art Society started in 2005 under the auspices of the Corpus Christi Art Center. Founding members: Lou Owens, Sherry Chapman, Donna Van Baalen, Elna Smith, Jo Shults, Jo Prairie and Carolyn White.
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Presidents
Elna Smith 2005-2006
Carolyn White 2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
2005 - 13 artists 34 works (Inaugural Exhibition May)
2006 - 9 artists 29 works
- 2007 under 50 members
2007 - 15 artists 50 works

2007-AMA: http://www.miniatureartist.com The Association of Miniature Artists founded in July 2007 by Wes Siegrist, Andrew Gott and members of the Yahoo Miniature Art Forum.
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Online Notes
- AMA website built by Diane Bruckner in January 2008.
- Yahoo Club (theminiaturecanvas) - started April 2000 defunct 2004
- CiderPainters Yahoo Club - started September 2001 defunct October 2001 from lack of participation
- http://groups.yahoo.com/group/miniatureart/ (Yahoo Miniature Art Forum ~ founded in April 2003 by Jim Smith and Vicki Taute)
- http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=219 (WetCanvas Miniature Art Forum ~ founded in January 2005)
- http://www.miniatureartshows.com (Miniature Art WetPaint Wiki ~ created on April 5th, 2007 by Rebecca and Karen Latham. The Wiki is an on-going project with contributions from numerous artists.)

DATE?-USM(?): The Ulster Society of Miniaturists (Northern Ireland)
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Presidents
Exhibition Details and Notes
- (?)1988-1993
- Ceased existence in 1993

DATE?-WMAS: Wyoming Miniature Art Society, Inc. (Casper, WY Guild?)
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Presidents
Exhibition Details and Notes
- (?)1995(?)
- Ceased existence in ...

DATE?-SAMAP: Societe des Artistes en Miniatures et Art Precieux (France)
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Presidents
Anne Luquet de St. Germain (?)
Madame Bracq (?)2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
-(?)1995(?) (@100 members)
- Ceased existence in 2006/7

DATE?-WCSMA: West Coast Society of Miniature Art, Santa Barbara, California
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Presidents
Rilla Underwood 2007
Exhibition Details and Notes
- (?)2002...(?) in the foyer of the Goleta Library

DATE?-Dutch Foundation of Miniature Art: (from the WFM minutes(1998-2000)
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DATE?-Centre Avit des Arts de St. Petersbourg - AVIT: (from the WFM minutes(2000)
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*This informational page is a work in progress and was compiled by Wes Siegrist with help from Caroline Hayes, Kay Petryszak, Donna Van Baalen, Richard William Haynes, Pat Longley, Andrew Gott, Marilyn Peck, Bernadette Conner, Pam Palco,...(others pending)
Special thanks to Mary Kugelman for catalog information.
Please contact Wes Siegrist at 1.865.448.2044 or siegrist@artofwildlife.com to make additions or corrections. ~ Thank You!
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