My mother loved trying new recipes more than I liked trying to eat them. Covered in gravy, I didn’t know what it was. “Take a baby bite. It’s delicious.” Good advice for a hungry kid whose only other option would be a slice of bread with peanut butter. Wonder Bread boot liners gave me away as I stomped my way to school.

Now I give the same advice to gallery visitors. That first look at an abstract or collage work of art can be confusing. It might be better understood by taking a tiny look. Do the lines, colors, shapes or textures seem the same as another work of art? Seeking a place of familiarity gives you a base to build on. As an artist, when an 18” x 24” canvas feels too big to fill, start small. Canvases are available 2” x 2,” and tiny art can be BIG business!

Mindy Huntress is a local acrylic artist who is a master of fine details. Her art is often small in scale with scenes that encourage personal interaction – like holding a treasure in the palm of your hand. Every detail matters. Each brushstroke, texture, and color choice is deliberate. This process demands precision and patience, but it’s deeply rewarding. These intricate elements invite viewers to look closer.

Working in micro art, Mindy creates miniature universes. Her whimsical landscapes, symbolic characters, and vibrant natural elements tell stories that invite viewers to appreciate the beauty in precision. “Viewers discover something new each time they look – a hidden symbol, subtle pattern, or unexpected emotion uncovering layers of meaning and depth. The process of adding fine details is both meditative and joyful.” (www.mindyhuntress.com)

Jacqueline Renee is a highly recommended local jeweler who specializes in custom design and repair. Her studio is in Valley Commons (1106 Mondovi Rd., Eau Claire), and she takes clients by appointment only. Working as a jeweler for more than 28 years, she loves to buy antique and vintage jewelry that she restores and resells.  

“One aspect I love about custom orders is that I can get stones cut in the shape and size you want,” she says. “Taking time to source out what you’re looking for is my specialty! I have the best clients that I get to create with! I love it when people incorporate hidden meaning in their rings. There was a number that was special to my client, so I found a stone with a carat weight that matched that number. It’s the little subtle things that can make jewelry extra special.”

She continues: “Restoration has become a passion of mine. It’s not only technically challenging, preserves history, but it connects memories. My client came in with her mother’s wedding set, and it was in bad shape with sections missing from wear. I recreated the missing and worn sections out of gold and made it strong again. Being able to wear her mom’s ring meant the world to her. My work is a labor of love.” (jacquelinerenee.com)

So, walk into a gallery near you and take a baby bite of local art. It’s delicious.

“Behind the Easel” is a periodic column by Patricia Hawkenson, a visual artist and one of the proprietors of Decadent Gifts & Gallery in Eau Claire.