Dioramas

"The word diorama can either refer to a nineteenth century mobile theatre device, or, in modern usage, a three-dimensional full-size or miniature model, sometimes enclosed in a glass showcase for a museum. Dioramas are often built by hobbyists as part of related hobbies such as military vehicle modeling, miniature figure modeling or aircraft modeling. The art of creating miniature figures and landscapes first made its appearance in the sixth century, in Japan. This art of miniature landscapes is called "Bonkei." The art of Bonsai, the art of growing miniature trees in pots, and making them look like their natural counterparts, is thought to have its origins at around this same time period." (from Wikipedia)

In my search I discovered that a diorama can be as small as a walnut, simply made in a paper tube or put in a fragile egg shell. It can be a peephole into a scene. Or it can be one of the largest dioramas in the world with a book published about it's making. Dioramas can also be anything in between.

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Little Walnut Diorama Ornaments

Winter Scene Egg Diorama

Ostrich Egg Diorama

Necklace Diorama

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Asian Diorama 1

Asian Diorama 2

Antique Cooper Shop Diorama

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Paper Tube Diorama

Let It Snow Diorama

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Grocery Store Diorama

Peephole Diorama

This is my diorama that I'm working on. I have it out during the winter (which is long in Wisconsin). I put in on my bookshelf as it seems to make a good frame for it. As you can see I'm in desperate need of a background. Also need a few more trees. I would like to build a bigger hill for the sledders. There are many tutorials on dioramas and I think I could find one for making hills, mountains, etc. 

 

Diorama Clervaux is one of the largest dioramas ever built.

Well as you can see, that's a whole lotta dioramas. But it's actually just the tip of the diorama iceberg. Do your own search on this unique type of artwork. The possibilities are endless.