Mission
The Miniature Society of Cincinnati (MSC) is an educational, social, not-for-profit organization, whose purpose is:
• to stimulate and develop interest in the creation and the collection of miniatures as a creative art form,
• to encourage and help members to develop their knowledge and creative skills in this field, and
• to hold open shows and exhibits to increase public awareness and knowledge of the art of miniaturization.
We currently have around 30 members, whose talent levels range from the beginner to the more advanced miniaturist and master craftsperson. The strength of our club is our talented members, and their total willingness to share their expertise in guiding newer members.
History
The Miniature Society of Cincinnati (MSC) was founded by three friends in 1975. After obtaining a charter from the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts (NAME), the first meeting was held in January 1976 with 18 people attending. Several original members are still active in the club.
MSC celebrated its 40th anniversary in Fall of 2015. Festivities included a catered party at Peterloon, souvenirs, and a commemorative booklet outlining the history of the club and highlights over the years. Members brought vignettes and centerpieces from past parties and special events, a few of which are shown below.
Special Events
Annual Dollhouse and Miniatures Show & Sale
Since 1976 MSC has hosted an annual Dollhouse and Miniatures Show & Sale. Held in the Spring, the two-day event features extensive displays of miniatures of all kinds, dollhouses, roomboxes, vignettes, silver, china, porcelain, reproductions of period furniture, and accessories. We are pleased that vendors from many states participate, offering delightful miniature items for sale that appeal to all levels of miniaturists. We announce door-prize winners all day long and have a special Kids’ Table (only for children up to 12 years old) where everything is priced $6 and under. For more about the Show, please go to the MSC Show page.
Youth Workshops
Since 2011 we have sponsored a free summer workshop for children. Typically held in July at the Madeira Branch of The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, this one-afternoon event has been extremely popular. Marjorie R, or “Mini Marjorie” as the kids call her, does a fantastic job of planning and presenting the workshop, along with a little help from club members and library staff. Space is limited and reservations fill up within hours of opening the phones. If you may be interested in your child attending, watch for announcements on the Calendar and News pages. Some past projects are shown in the gallery below.
Charitable Donations
A portion of the proceeds from our annual Show & Sale is allocated to our youth programs and charitable donations. Over the years we have donated many dollhouses and roomboxes to area hospitals and homes for children. The sweet Bear House in the photos below was a project from 2007. Master Craftsman Randy H designed and cut the wooden kits. Sandiey C drew all the colorful graphics and designed the furnishings. The group assembled and donated the houses to a local women’s shelter. The children there loved them! The design was also adapted for our 2015 Youth Workshop, as seen in the Gallery above.
Exhibits
In addition to our wonderful exhibits at our annual Show & Sale, at various times our works have been on display at the Cincinnati Public Library, Sharon Woods Village, Troy-Hayner Cultural Center, Loveland Historical Museum, Taft Museum, Cincinnati Art Museum, and Promont Museum to name a few locations. Below are select examples.
