The Castine Experience, 1

It has been 2 years since i first heard of this gorgeous little seaside village called Castine, Maine USA. Tranquil, utterly pretty and oozing with that typical New England style that is so unique the area. And the past few weeks i was extremely fortunate to visit and experience this little place again. Because I attended IGMA Guild School 2012 for the third time! A whole week of tuition by the best of Miniature Artisans around, together with more then 250 other scale loving students.

All i can say is WOW! What a week it has been; meeting up with dear old friends i'd not seen for a year and making new ones along the way. And not only that, the level of miniature excellence seems to increase with each year i've been there. My mouth dropped as i wondered around the exhibit room at the start of a week of tuition. Students and teachers had brought in the finest creations they'd made during the past year and i was left in awe bout what people are capable of!

 

So many different techniques... Needle point that even magnified barely showed individual stitches. Metalwork and furniture, with so much detail it took my breath away... Sceneries, dolls and paintings... If i would elaborate on one i would do others short and i don't want to do that. They were all so beautifully made. And seeing some pieces i already knew from the internet, finally for real is just really something! Pictures, how good they may be, never do justice to them!!!  I feel blessed to have seen them with my own eyes and being able to express my admiration and appreciation to their makers.

I must apologize to you lot cos looking back I seem to have photographed just a fraction of what was to be seen, but do enjoy the pictures of The Exhibit Room.

I'll be posting more about the classes i've taken later in the week. First unpacking and getting back into my timezone :) 

ps. Isn't that cute yellow cottage just screaming out to be made in scale?