Artist Shannon Taylor brings enchanting miniature worlds to life inside vintage compacts, where whimsy and mystery unfold within each tiny scene. Taylor, based in Oakland, California, finds inspiration in antique cosmetic cases, transforming these small vessels into intricate realms where fantastic creatures, magical gatherings, and even the occasional vampire come to life. Her latest solo exhibition, Night Market, opens next month at Hashimoto Contemporary and features her newest collection of miniature art.
Each compact piece is crafted meticulously from watercolor paintings on paper, carefully cut with a precision knife and layered within the small, antique frames. The tiny artworks invite viewers to explore detailed scenes of supernatural rituals, mysterious landscapes, and fantastical characters. One of her most captivating pieces shows a moon gazing upon its reflection in a mirrored pond, creating a moment of tranquil mystery that feels much grander than the compact’s inches-wide frame.
Taylor’s passion for working with vintage compacts started as she began collecting antique cosmetic cases from flea markets, vintage shops, and online sales. Friends and fans have also gifted her with family heirlooms, adding a layer of personal history to her art. “My favorite thing is when people send me their own, or even their grandmother’s collections,” Taylor says. “These compacts carry so much history, and it’s wonderful to transform them into magical keepsakes.”
Fans can follow Shannon Taylor’s art on Instagram for more updates on her Night Market exhibition and to catch glimpses of her enchanting creations. Taylor’s work reminds us that art can live in even the smallest spaces, making the ordinary extraordinary with a touch of imagination.
