# Mini Container Art Jim Doran Creates Tiny Layered Illustrated Scenes in Found Objects By Meghan Young | Published 2011-11-13 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jim-doran References: [neatorama](http://www.neatorama.com/2011/11/06/tiny-worlds-inside-altoids-tins) & [jimdoran.net](http://jimdoran.net/) Dioramas are blowing up on the art scene lately, making it harder to create something truly original, but Jim Doran does this with ease. He creates stunning mini-illustrations that he then places in found objects such as watches, tuna cans and ring boxes. He does seem to have a particular affinity towards [Altoids tin boxes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/altoids-x-bad-roman). Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Jim Doran is a web developer. Yet, clearly he has another calling with these mind-boggling dioramas. According to Doran, his mission is to “put ideas inside of other objects.” He achieves that by illustrating tiny pen and ink scenes and then layering them in [tiny objects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/world-of-miniverse) that show the tiny scale of his work. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.3/10 - Popularity: 88% | Activity: 93% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Micro-illustrations:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate micro-illustrations into various products and packaging to add a unique and artistic touch. - **Found Object Art:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new ways to repurpose found objects by incorporating mini-illustrations and creating captivating dioramas. - **Layered Artwork:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Experiment with layering techniques to add depth and dimension to artwork in unconventional and unexpected ways. ### Where This Applies - **Artistic Supplies:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop specialized art supplies that support the creation of micro-illustrations and layered artwork in small-scale formats. - **Packaging and Branding:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborate with artists to incorporate found object art into packaging designs, elevating brand image and creating a unique product experience. - **Art Galleries and Exhibitions:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Curate exhibits and showcase artists specializing in mini-container art, attracting a new audience fascinated by the intricate details and innovative concepts. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Miniaturized Product Art Photographs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/small-muji.md) - [Miniature Artful Hip-Hop Landmarks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/danny-cortes.md) - [Love-Inspired Miniature Art](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/love-in-a-bottle.md) - [Digital Archetype Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/christian-rex-van-minnen-1.md) - [Super-Mini Toy Collectibles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minis-in-minis.md) - [Crystal-Adorned Crushed Cans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sam-keller.md) - [Miniature Baking Collectibles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mini-food.md) - [Impressive DIY Terrariums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/diy-terrarium1.md) - [Stunning Origami Portraits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/origami-portaits.md)