Tiny worlds, Big Stories

Lara Blair

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VISUAL ARTS

Here we celebrate the artists who craft small-scale magic — miniature makers, diorama dreamers, dollhouse designers, micro-world builders — and uncover the stories, creativity and techniques that bring these tiny worlds to life. If you love tiny art or create it yourself, you’re in the right place. Tiny worlds. Big stories. Endless wonder.

16 HRS AGO

Miriam Stone Wilson of Miniature Werewolf

What if the girl who was swallowed by the wolf… grew up to become one? In this episode of Tiny Worlds, Big Stories, Lara talks with Seattle-based miniaturist Miriam Stone Wilson, the imaginative force behind intricate public dioramas, including Postmaster Wanda, an octopus running a hidden mailroom inside a neighborhood parcel locker. We also talk about a stunning two-era Seattle home created for Vanishing Seattle at Bumbershoot. Miriam grew up in the Pacific Northwest imagining tiny woodland creatures, magical cottages, and bedtime stories told nightly by her father. These stories would later become her first miniature build: "Mrs. Witch’s Cottage". In this conversation, they explore: • Growing up in Santa Fe and the Olympic Peninsula surrounded by handmade dollhouses • Why miniatures take longer than full-scale art • Public art, parcel lockers, and honoring the USPS • Research as a creative superpower • Why libraries are perfect places for tiny worlds • Tutorial Tuesday and the generosity of the miniature community • The difference between being “artistic” and calling yourself an artist • Creativity in turbulent times • And her ambitious new project: a perimenopausal retelling of Red Riding Hood through a Jungian alchemical dollhouse This episode is about magic. About transformation. About humor in the face of chaos. And about building the worlds we want to live in — even if they fit inside a box. If you’ve ever believed tiny things hold enormous meaning, this one is for you. ******** https://www.miniaturewerewolf.com/ https://www.instagram.com/miniaturewerewolf https://www.tiktok.com/@miniaturewerewolf ******* Lara's art: https://www.instagram.com/larablairartstudio https://www.larablairartstudio.com/ Small By Design Newsletter Sign-up: https://larablairartstudio.myflodesk.com/smallnews

46 min
MAR 9

Rachael Harms Mahlandt of PDXDinorama & Sidewalk Joy

What if joy could live on your sidewalk? In this episode of Tiny Worlds, Big Stories, Lara sits down with Rachael Harms Mahlandt, co-founder of the Sidewalk Joy movement, to talk about tiny dioramas, mug exchanges, dino swaps, and the radical act of creating whimsy in public spaces. From growing up making miniature worlds out of cardboard boxes to studying neuroscience, working in marketing, navigating early motherhood, and eventually building a worldwide map of nearly 800 community joy spots, Rachael’s story is one of courage, creativity, and choosing connection over cynicism. They talk about: • The fleeting nature of time — and how it shaped her childhood • Motherhood, burnout, and reclaiming creativity • The first Dino Exchange (and what happened when it was vandalized) • The Mug Exchange that sparked a movement • Going viral on The Kelly Clarkson Show and NPR • Why joy is not frivolous — it’s necessary This conversation is about more than miniatures. It’s about belonging. It’s about community. It’s about keeping your heart open when it would be easier to close it. If you’ve ever felt the urge to make something small that might mean something big — this episode is for you. 0:00 – Host introduction 0:42 – Rachael introduces herself 1:30 – Rachael explains how she got started 3:10 – Rachael talks about early challenges 5:25 – Rachael shares biggest career lesson 8:00 – Rachael on current projects 10:15 – Rachael gives advice to newcomers 12:00 – Closing comments from Rachael https://www.instagram.com/pdxdinorama https://www.instagram.com/sidewalkjoy https://www.tiktok.com/@pdxdinorama https://www.pdxsidewalkjoy.com/ *********** Small By Design monthly newsletter: https://larablairartstudio.myflodesk.com/smallnews Lara's art: https://www.instagram.com/larablairartstudio https://www.larablairartstudio.com/

55 min
MAR 2

Lisa Swerling of Glass Cathedrals

What does it really take to build a creative life that lasts? In this deeply honest conversation, British miniature artist Lisa Swerling of Glass Cathedrals shares the unexpected path that led her to create thousands of tiny boxed worlds over the past 22 years — and the mindset shifts that sustained her long before success arrived. Lisa opens up about: Growing up creative but controlled — and how perfectionism shaped her early identityThe broken architect figurine that changed everythingWhy she didn’t call herself an artist for the first decadeThe enormous responsibility of creating commissioned pieces that hold people’s most precious memoriesHow trust between artist and collector makes or breaks the workWhy building a mailing list matters more than chasing algorithmsThe quiet power of “gentle shifts in perspective”This is a conversation about vulnerability, business, motherhood, resilience, glitter, grief, and the courage to keep making what feels true. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re “really” an artist… if selling your work feels exposing… or if you’re trying to build a sustainable creative career without burning out — this episode will feel like a steadying hand on your shoulder. Because sometimes, changing the world doesn’t require shouting. It requires small, meaningful acts of empathy — one tiny world at a time. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Creativity 06:49 Life Transitions: From South Africa to London and California 12:10 The Artistic Process: Creating Miniature Worlds 20:21 The Meaning Behind Glass Cathedrals 28:17 Art as a Medium for Empathy and Connection 36:53 Advice for Aspiring Artists and Navigating the Art World YouTube video of podcast with images: Website: https://glasscathedrals.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/glasscathedrals ******* Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/tinyworldsbigstories Small by Design newsletter for miniature lovers - https://larablairartstudio.myflodesk.com/smallnews Lara IG: https://www.instagram.com/larablairartstudio

45 min
FEB 24

Roy Tyson of Roy's People

Go behind the scenes with Roy Tyson, the contemporary artist known for his miniature figures interacting with iconic works of art. In this creative podcast episode, he shares how he evolved from tiny photography scenes to highly detailed shadow box installations featuring miniature people painting, erasing, and transforming famous art references — including his Damien Hirst–inspired dot series. We also dive into his commercial collaborations with major brands, how corporate commissions expanded his visibility, and how he founded and ran an artist-led art fair to create more supportive opportunities for emerging artists. Roy opens up about building gallery relationships, growing on Instagram, navigating the art market, and protecting creative time while traveling internationally. A must-listen for miniature artists, contemporary art lovers, creative entrepreneurs, and anyone building an art business with momentum. https://www.royspeople.com/ https://www.instagram.com/royspeople/ https://www.tiktok.com/@royspeopleofficial?lang=en ***** Subscribe to Small by Design newsletter, a monthly review for the miniature community: https://larablairartstudio.myflodesk.com/smallnews Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/tinyworldsbigstories Lara Blair's art: https://instagram.com/larablairartstudio

1h 10m
FEB 16

Chelsea Andersson of Chelsea Makes

What does it take to turn childhood creativity into a full-time artistic career? In this inspiring conversation, Lara sits down with Chelsea of Chelsea Makes. Chelsea is a miniature artist whose journey spans cardboard Barbie house renovations, landscape architecture, and building intricate tiny worlds for major brands like Warby Parker, Barbie, and L’Oreal. Chelsea shares the behind-the-scenes reality of brand collaborations, the courage it takes to leave stability for creativity, and why tiny objects can hold enormous emotional power. In this episode, they explore persistence, creative community, and the surprising opportunities that can come from being just a little strategically persistent. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late, too risky, or too unconventional to follow your creative instincts, this episode is your reminder that imagination is often the most reliable compass. Website: https://www.chelseamakes.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/chelseamake... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chelseamakesc... Book: https://www.amazon.com/50-Makes-Moder... Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChelseaMakesCA Domestika class: https://www.domestika.org/en/chelseam...

45 min
JAN 23

Kylie White of Whitespace Miniatures

In this engaging conversation, Kylie White shares her journey from a childhood fascination with miniatures to building a successful business centered around her passion. She discusses the healing power of her hobby, the importance of community, and the tools that have helped her along the way. Kylie emphasizes the significance of authenticity in her work and offers advice for aspiring miniature artists. As she reflects on her evolving style and future aspirations, listeners are inspired by her story of creativity, resilience, and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Kylie's Early Fascination with Miniatures 02:53 The Healing Power of Miniature Design 06:00 Balancing Content Creation and Miniature Projects 08:58 Turning a Hobby into a Business 12:02 Father-Daughter Collaboration in Miniature Building 15:03 The Emotional Attachment to Miniature Creations 18:01 Building a Community and Marketing on Etsy 21:02 Advice for Aspiring Miniature Artists 24:02 Future Collaborations and Aspirations 27:05 Manifesting Dreams and Future Goals 30:03 The Journey of Creativity and Hobbies 32:55 Embracing Technology in Miniature Making 36:03 Finding Inspiration and Sources for Miniature Projects 38:58 Evolving Styles and Personal Growth 42:06 The Healing Power of Creativity 46:01 Community Connections and Collaboration 48:59 Honoring Childhood Dreams and Aspirations Visit Kylie at: instagram.com/kyliewhitespace tiktok.com/@kyliewhitespace https://www.kyliewhitespace.com/ https://www.etsy.com/shop/WhiteSpaceMiniatures https://www.youtube.com/@kyliewhitespace ******* Tiny Worlds, Big Stories YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@tinyworldsbigstories Lara's art: https://www.larablairartstudio.com/ https://www.instagram.com/larablairartstudio

53 min
JAN 10

Tom Haney automata artist

Tom Haney, a skilled artist and teacher, shares his journey from childhood fascination with mechanical art to becoming a full-time automata artist. He discusses his training, transition to entrepreneurship, and the evolution of his creative process. Tom's unique approach to automata and his teaching experiences are highlighted, along with the challenges and rewards of his artistic career. Tom Haney, a creative artist, shares his journey of creating marionettes and kinetic sculptures, his influences, and the importance of curiosity in his work. He also discusses the challenges of showcasing his unique artwork and the significance of creativity in his life. Takeaways Mechanical ArtistryTransition to Entrepreneurship Creativity as a driving forceThe value of curiosity in artistic expression Chapters 00:00 Evolution of Creative Process and Artistic Career22:16 The Creative Collaboration27:25 Navigating the Art World33:58 Honoring Creativity and Curiosity WATCH THE VIDEO RECORDING of this podcast: www.youtube.com/@tinyworldsbigstories Website: https://www.tomhaney.com/ Youtube channel: https://youtube.com/@tomhaneyartwork?si=OwGIJOb6qN6pTv0j IG: https://www.instagram.com/tomhaneyartwork/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Tom-Haneys-Artwork/100057975912434/# YouTube Little Tybee band video: https://youtu.be/-erw7PWJqDU?si=2EIJ43mUbTqBpgWR ******* Visit Lara's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larablairartstudio/ Visit Lara's website: https://www.larablairartstudio.com/

36 min
JAN 4

Paris Renfroe of PRD Miniatures

What happens when a master furniture maker is asked to make something small — and takes it just as seriously? Paris Renfroe is a lifelong craftsman whose hands have always been drawn to precision and beauty. Before miniatures, he built custom furniture and cabinetry — full-scale pieces made with the same care and perfectionism he brings to his miniature worlds today. In this episode, we talk about the moment a single request for a tiny version of his work changed everything, the discipline behind his mid-century modern aesthetic, and how his miniatures grew into museum-worthy pieces collected around the world. WATCH THE VIDEO RECORDING on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tJaiGJIkJWg?si=xXxZJWRtUOdp4ZUw Paris' website: https://prdminiatures.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/prdminiatures/ ******************* Lara Blair's art: https://www.larablairartstudio.com/ - https://www.instagram.com/larablairartstudio/

46 min
2025-12-11

Welcome to the Smallest Big World

In this debut episode of Tiny Worlds Big Stories, host Lara Blair introduces her passion for miniature art and the community surrounding it. She shares her personal journey from a childhood love of dollhouses to becoming a full-time artist, creating meaningful miniature scenes. The podcast aims to celebrate the creativity of miniature makers and explore the diverse world of miniatures beyond just dollhouses, including dioramas and fine art. WATCH THE VIDEO RECORDING ON YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZnHV7xkVZks?si=5OfNsEgmKVmTAIHI Lara Blair Art website: https://www.larablairartstudio.com/ Lara Blair Art Studio IG: https://www.instagram.com/larablairartstudio/

9 min

9 Episodes

Here we celebrate the artists who craft small-scale magic — miniature makers, diorama dreamers, dollhouse designers, micro-world builders — and uncover the stories, creativity and techniques that bring these tiny worlds to life. If you love tiny art or create it yourself, you’re in the right place. Tiny worlds. Big stories. Endless wonder.

Creator

Lara Blair
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

9
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2025 Lara Blair