ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: The Art of Miniatures -- Research, Precision and Artistry Combine in Michael Yurkovic's Studio Recreating Items from Mid-Century to the Nineteenth Century

One of Michael's most popular mid-century vignettes -- aluminum chairs that really fold, the 1950s era cooler and metal patio table. At one time he taught classes on how to recreate these very items. Visit Michael's website -- address below -- to view more of his miniature work including rooms and furniture.

Michael Yurkovic of Des Plaines, IL brings his variety of experience as an Industrial Designer, Toy Inventor, Technical Illustrator, and Machinist to each piece he creates in miniature working in a 1:12 scale. He holds the ranking of Artisan in the International Guild of Miniature Artisans. Michael’s works have been featured in The Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the KSB Miniature Collection in Maysville Kentucky.

Michael expanded more and more into miniatures with the help of an established miniaturist. He approached Bill Robertson's exhibit at a local miniature show with some models of his work to ask for advice. Bill took him under his wing and opened doors that included introducing him to various internationally known miniature artists. With that support, Michael soon gained a foothold into the industry where he especially enjoyed recreating mid-century modern designs.

Most of Michael's projects lately center on museum commissions. Recently, he returned from Eastford, Connecticut where he hand-delivered a miniature replica of the 1823 Phoenix cotton mill that once stood in the area as a major employer. Duplicating all the machinery in miniature took him 18 months to complete and stands as one of his most challenging projects ever. See details below...

THE PHOENIX COTTON MILL

Built in 1823, the Phoenix Stone Cotton Mill was among Connecticut’s earliest textile mills. Powered by the Still River, its machinery transformed raw cotton into thread and then into woven cloth—connecting a small rural mill village to New England’s growing textile economy.

THE SCALE MODEL

Described by one museum curator as a “meticulous masterpiece,” this interactive 1/34 scale model brings the mill to life. The turning waterwheel, spinning shafts and belts, and a control panel that spotlights each machine and explains its function, combine to reveal how cotton was processed from bale to cloth. From a bird’s-eye view, the model offers a clear understanding of a cotton mill’s construction and operation.  The scale model was created by Michael Yurkovic of Atomic Miniatures.

"Miniatures have now been elevated to the level of fine art," Michael explains. "More museums, collectors, and historians are investing in miniatures. I love the history and research aspect of these commissions. Time dissolves for me when I'm focused on my project. I'm so blessed this is my life and being in that moment of creation. At age 71, It helps keep me sharp and engaged in the world."

Currently he's deeply involved researching and building miniature replicas of the Wright Brothers' bicycle shop and airplanes for Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio named for the Wright Brothers.

"Over the last five-to-seven years miniatures are enjoying a revival among a new generation discovering it through social media. There are so many facets and niches to the miniature world now," Michael explains. "From mini-food production and videos around that to artisans making mini books complete with leather bindings and gold embossing -- all done by hand. Believe it or not, making mini plants is the fastest growing niche with instagram posters sharing new materials and resources."

According to Michael, if you're an avid enthusiast, then attending The Kensington Dollshouse Festival in London is a must. Here's some information:

https://dollshouseshowcase.com/

Kensington Town Hall Online Showcase: August 28th to September 3rd 2026

Christmas Show: November 28th & 29th 2026 Kensington Town Hall

Connect with Michael

Follow Michael Yurkovic on Facebook or Instagram or visit his website atomicminiature.com