Small and spectacular

Suzie Harrison

Not many artists would consider their work a small task, but each

year plenty of artists are happy to have their pieces judged for

their smallness and put on display in “Art That’s Small at City

Hall.”

Art for the exhibit must be no larger than 12 inches along any

edge, including the frame, and 3 inches in depth.

Artists turned in their entries on Saturday, and many seemed giddy

with their tiny jewels in-tow. Some of the pieces could fit in the

palm of a hand. They will be on display though April 29.

Marv Johnson entered a seashell spiral study modeled in clay, cast

in hydrostone and then polychromed. His art is a life-long passion

and he enjoys this exhibit.

“I like the small size, it’s fun,” Johnson said. “It’s a nice

atmosphere.”

Felix Martin did acrylic on canvas of vibrant oak trees.

“I like that it’s local, which is nice,” Martin said. “It

encourages art in Laguna Beach and it keeps our heritage of an artist

community alive. I think that’s important.”

“Art That’s Small is the year’s highlight at City Hall,” cultural

arts manager Sian Poeschl said. “We had an increase in participation

and a fabulous array of entries.”

She explained that the program was set up to allow a lot of

entries in a small space, on the walls of City Hall.

“The artists have created masterpieces either as miniatures or

small-scale artworks,” Poeschl said.

“Art That’s Small at City Hall” can be viewed at 505 Forest Ave.

and was the brainchild of arts commissioner and artist Mike Tauber.

Artist Karen Feuer-Schwager likes being a part of it.

“I love participating in our town and its activities, it’s great

to support it,” Feuer-Schwager said. “Last year, I really liked the

choices -- so I think I have some good competition.”