Art of all kinds often serves as a mirror to society, but also has the potential to transform it. For many miniature artists, their work affords them the opportunity to create mimetic versions of the real world, as it is or as they would like it to be - dolls that mimic people, buildings that mimic homes. In doing so, miniaturists use imitative processes to re-create and alter versions of themselves, others and the world at large, in ways that model their values. In some cases, makers work to preserve and promote valuable cultural practices and ‘traditions’ that are under threat. In others, makers use miniaturisation as a way of capturing and celebrating the diversity of human beings, in the face of discrimination. Finally, through crafting together, some makers create communities of practice that nurture feelings of belonging and togetherness in times of isolation. 

Creating ‘model’ people, places and possessions that incorporate belonging, diversity and tradition, serves as an antidote to displacement, discrimination and detraditionalization.