Diem Chau's carvings of graphite pencils to make different sculptures of tiny people and animals are truly remarkable when you consider the scale of the detail relative to the size of the pencil.
Many of Chau's work in the past have consisted of using pencils and crayons to carve out supremely detailed figures, and in this most recent gallery called 'A-Z: Northwest Native,' some of the exhibits show stooping bears and pensively ensconced people propped up on top of graphite pencils. Each one is hand-carved and stands perched above a grafted down pencil. Some other of Chau's carvings include a hunching gorilla, a fly and a large bird with his beak pointed upwards with food in its mouth that measures approximately an inch.
Chau, who immigrated to the US from Vietnam together with her family in 1986, is currently displaying her work at the G. Gibson Gallery in Seattle, Washington from August 30 until October 12.
Miniature Pencil Carvings
Diem Chau's Pencil Carvings are Tiny But Supremely Detailed
Trend Themes
1. Miniature Sculpture Art - The trend of creating intricate sculptures on a small scale using unconventional materials like pencils presents an opportunity for artists to explore new forms of expression.
2. Microcarving - The trend of microcarving, like Diem Chau's pencil carvings, showcases the potential for creating highly detailed artwork on a minuscule scale, which could inspire advancements in precision carving techniques.
3. Narrative Art - The trend of using art to tell stories, as seen in Diem Chau's pencil carvings depicting figures and animals, demonstrates the potential for artists to communicate narratives and evoke emotions through their creations.
Industry Implications
1. Fine Arts - The fine arts industry can explore and promote the trend of miniature sculpture art, providing platforms for artists like Diem Chau to showcase their intricate and detailed carvings.
2. Craft and Hobby - The craft and hobby industry can cater to the trend of microcarving by providing specialized tools and materials for enthusiasts to create their own miniature sculptures and carvings.
3. Gallery and Exhibition - The gallery and exhibition industry can embrace the trend of narrative art, curating exhibitions that focus on artworks that tell stories and engage viewers on a deeper level.