NORWALK, Conn. — The Norwalk Public Library is hosting a display of tiny room constructions created by Vance Alexander, a local artist, this summer.
The exhibit, called Room in a Box: A Look at the World From a Different Perspective, is on view at the Main Library on Belden Avenue through the end of August. Each piece reflects Alexander’s years of experience in architectural and interior design, where, as a student, he built projects in 1/12” scale.
“There is an entire world out there that can be used for miniatures,” said Alexander. “It is a matter of looking at things with an eye for the tiny.”
This is displayed in his work, where he has used a variety of everyday objects for his projects. These can range from cream containers from diners that he repurposed into lamp shades to Prosecco and champagne bottle caps that are transformed into chargers. Additionally, Alexander has made bowls out of acorn tops and floral arrangements from various fall plants.
Some of the pieces include a medieval-inspired room where knights are about to begin jousting on horseback, as well as the bedrooms of Charles II and Van Gogh, both fully furnished with decor, and a study featuring a stacked bookcase, furniture, and a world map wallpaper.
He uses several types of equipment, like X-acto knives, saws, mini files, and carving and dental tools, to hand-carve the fine details on the furniture and architectural elements.
After retiring in 2017, “just for fun,” Alexander made his first room box. In addition to creating miniatures, he is a short story writer whose work has appeared in national magazines, literary journals, and anthologies. He is also the author of two historical fiction novels: Expectant Journey and Oratory.
Norwalk residents can visit the exhibition for free during regular library hours.
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