Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society of Washington facts for kids

The Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society of Washington, D.C. (MPSGS) is a special group for artists who create tiny artworks. It's an "invitation-only" group, meaning artists usually need to be invited to join. They help artists make and share their amazing miniature art.

Their main office is in Washington, DC, but artists from all over the world are part of this society. The society was started in 1931 by Alyn Williams. It's one of the oldest groups for miniature artists in the world. In fact, it's the oldest active group of its kind in the United States!

Joining the MPSGS

To become a member of the MPSGS, artists usually need to show their miniature artworks in the Annual MPSGS International Exhibition three times. Another way to join is by winning a first, second, or third prize in this exhibition.

As of 2000, the society had many members from all over the world. These members often share their knowledge. They offer exhibitions, talks, videos, demonstrations, and workshops to teach others about miniature art.

Supporting Young Artists

The MPSGS also helps talented art students. They provide special financial awards, called stipends, to students graduating from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C.. These awards help young artists continue their studies.

The money for these awards first came from a special book. It was the first miniature book about how to create miniature art. The book, called Art in Miniature, was written by Margaret T. Hicks, a member and former president of the MPSGS.

Annual Exhibition

The society holds a big art show called the International Exhibition of Fine Art Miniatures. This show takes place for six weeks in November and December. You can see these amazing tiny artworks at the Strathmore Hall Arts Center in North Bethesda, Maryland.