Let me introduce myself, my name is Bradley L. Meinke, I am an IGMA (International Guild of Miniature Artisans) recognized creator of fine-scale miniature items. I have been active/ interested in the hobby since I was quite young. I love the history of the hobby and I actively try and promote and preserve the past at every step. The Scale Cabinetmaker has played an important part in my life for about 25 years or so. I was introduced to the publication from one of my mentors and devoured the knowledge in the first group of issues she gave me. I am looking forward to writing a series of posts that not only promote the hobby but also share information that inspires people to utilize resources from the past as well as the future. First I will give some background as to how I work and think about creating miniatures.

In my work of creating scale miniatures, I am always inspired by the lives and the history of actual antique furniture pieces. I feel that all pieces of furniture and accessories from the past have a story to tell and I work diligently to bring those stories forth in the details of my creations. It is important to me that my work capture accurately the past and use of a piece. I like to imagine myself as the user or cabinetmaker of the furniture, by mentally placing myself into the past. My work reflects a unique outlook on miniatures in the present, I try and recreate pieces that no one else is making. I often explore periods of decorative arts history that other artisans have neglected to use for inspiration. I utilize reference materials and actual pieces of furniture for inspiration. I focus on what has been labeled country or primitive types of pieces and like to reinterpret the shapes, colors, and details that make that furniture unique. I like to make regional pieces of furniture and have focused on the southern and mid-western parts of the United States. The rural pieces with their painted and aged wood finishes emit warmth and a glow that only handcrafted pieces can. My miniatures are finished inside and out, they can be viewed 360 degrees and can stand alone as an art form. I view the creation of scale miniatures as an art form and by putting my heart into each piece I feel I have honored the past. Most recently I have delved into folk painted and decoratively painted pieces of rural furniture. I enjoy the distinct colors and motifs that are unique to a region or to a specific cabinet maker.

The history of the hobby is so important to preserve, as with any art form, you can’t reinvent the wheel but just reinterpret it! For the readers who create or for the collectors or even for the people who just enjoy little things go forth and “Just Do It”!

Thanks for reading,

Bradley