Variety of Assemblages: November 2019
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures: A Journey Through Tiny Worlds
Nestled in Tucson, Arizona, the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures is a treasure trove for miniature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Founded by Patricia and Walter Arnell in 2009, this unique museum has grown from a specialised space for miniatures to a vibrant hub of art, history, and culture.
The museum's collection boasts over 500 intricate miniature pieces, including 60 antiques. From dollhouses and fine-scale miniature buildings to roomboxes and vignettes, the collection offers a captivating glimpse into human creativity and cultural history, all presented in small form.
One of the museum's most notable acquisitions is the Nuremberg Kitchen, a Bliss Manufacturing Company piece, and The Automata House (The Mechanical House). These antique miniatures seem to transport visitors back in time, offering a unique and immersive experience.
The museum's collection also includes related miniatures such as Just Suits, adding to the overall diversity of the exhibition. The museum's collection continues to grow, with new acquisitions being made regularly.
The museum's exhibits are beautifully captured by the lenses of Amy Haskell, Balfour Walker, and Michael Shea Muscarello. Photos of the museum's collection, which are courtesy of The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, provide a sneak peek into the intricate details and artistry that define the museum's offerings.
Over the years, the museum has expanded its thematic diversity, incorporating themed exhibits such as miniature recreations of Tucson's iconic local signs. These evolving exhibits reflect the museum's mission to preserve and advance miniature art, while engaging a diverse audience year-round.
The museum's growth can be traced back to its inception, with purchases and generous gifts contributing to its impressive collection size. Mrs. Arnell's love for miniatures began in the 1930s with a set of Strombecker wooden dollhouse furniture, a passion that has since grown into a significant cultural institution.
In conclusion, the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures in Tucson, Arizona, is a testament to the enduring appeal of miniatures as both collectibles and artistic expressions. With its expanding collection and thematic diversity, the museum continues to captivate visitors and celebrate the art, history, and craftsmanship of miniatures.
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, with its diverse collection of over 500 miniature pieces, perfectly encapsulates the intricate marriage between interior design, lifestyle, and home-and-garden artistry. From charming dollhouses to historical roomboxes, each exhibit offers a captivating glimpse into the richness of miniatures as a reflection of human creativity and cultural history.
