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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 6, 2009
Contact:
Gentry Spronken
Director of Marketing and Communications
The Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
520-881-0606
gentrys@theminitimemachine.org
The Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures Set to Open in Tucson This August
Tucson, Ariz.- July 6, 2009-The Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, quietly under construction since early 2008, will open its doors to the public in August 2009 making it the first museum of miniatures in Arizona.
Centrally located in Tucson near Camp Lowell and Swan, the 15,560 square-foot state-of-the-art building is the first of its kind built for the specific purpose of displaying an entertaining and interactive array of antique and contemporary miniatures as well as enchanting artifacts.
The Mini-Time Machine presents visitors with a fascinating, world-class collection of miniatures that serves as an introduction not only to a unique form of art, but also to the people and craftsmanship behind it. Over 160 miniature houses and room boxes from notable artisans are only a part of this vast collection of founder, Patricia C. Arnell. Arnell entered the world of miniatures and began her collection in 1979 when she moved to Tucson with her husband, Walter, and their family. Every piece in the collection tells a story not only about the pieces themselves and the process by which they were built, but also about the culture and era they reflect.
The museum styles itself as a miniature time machine by which visitors set off on a self-guided tour through different lands and time periods both real and imagined. There is a hint of magic that enraptures visitors, especially prevalent in the Enchanted Realm. The tiny scale and intricate details of miniatures seem to naturally encourage thoughts of little people and the magical worlds they inhabit. The museum plays off this "wee sense of wonder" by introducing a cast of small-scale fairy folk who call the museum their home.
Museum founder Arnell is quick to note that miniatures can be enjoyed by everyone. "The collection in this educational and magical environment appeals to visitors of all ages, interests and talents," said Arnell, a miniatures collector of 30 years.
The museum collection will be of high interest to serious enthusiasts as well as those new to the craft. Highlights from the collection include one of the oldest miniature houses in the United States- circa 1775- and the only complete Brooke Tucker house, a masterpiece spanning 13 feet.
Construction of the building and exhibits is nearly complete, right on target for the August 2009 opening to the public. The grand opening celebration is planned for early October. The museum is currently seeking volunteers for a variety of positions.
For more information about the museum contact Gentry Spronken at gentrys@theminitimemachine.org. For more information on volunteering, contact Lisa Hastreiter-Lamb at lisahl@theminitimemachine.org. Images available upon request.
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