Visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon will have the opportunity to see a unique piece of art by award-winning micro-artist Graham Short this October as Shakespeare’s New Place plays host to the smallest portrait of the playwright.
The engraving, called The Bard of Avon, which can be seen in the eye of a needle, is based on the iconic portrait of William Shakespeare by Martin Droeshout. Known today as the portrait included in the First Folio - the first collection of Shakespeare's plays published together in 1623.
Throughout October audiences are invited to Shakespeare’s New Place to view the artwork up close through a microscope, revealing the delicate artistry and skill involved in its creation.
‘’This is another great reason to visit Shakespeare’s New Place. It is certainly a rare piece that is sure to be snapped up by a collector, and so is not to be missed!
‘’You’ll be able to visit the Shakespeare Shop at New Place and see the piece on display throughout October.”
Commented Louisa Stott, Head of Commercial at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.
Intricate Process of Creation
Based in the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham, Graham Short is best known for his intricate and astonishingly tiny engravings. After training and working as an engraver, Short applied his experience and skillset to micro-art, producing fine engravings with simple hand tools that are nearly invisible to the naked eye without a microscope.
Short goes to extraordinary lengths to keep a steady hand whilst producing his artwork. To produce such detailed pieces of art, he works from midnight until 5am to minimise the risk of vibrations from nearby traffic. Short also lowers his heart rate to twenty beats per minute to ensure an incredibly steady hand.
His most recognised works include a portrait of writer Jane Austen on the transparent section of four polymer banknotes and a microscopic image thought to be the world's tiniest nativity scene. The portrait of Shakespeare is one of his latest pieces.
‘’Creating this portrait of one of the world’s most iconic writers was a great challenge and achievement. Now to have it displayed in his hometown for visitors from far and wide to see is an honour.’’
Said Graham Short.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust has confirmed that the artwork will be available for purchase during its display period, allowing one lucky visitor to take home a piece of history. Interested buyers are advised to speak to a member of the team when they visit.
Shakespeare’s New Place is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Residents with a CV37 postcode can visit for free with valid identification.