Minature and Small Works - Woodburn and Westcott Contemporary Fine Art Gallery - June 16, 2004 - 3 1/2 stars

The miniatures of M. Jan Schroeder anchor and inspire this particularly nice show featuring the work of W&W represented artists: Fick, Vlasek Hails, Line, Hampton, Morrison, Leslie, Kivela and von der Lohe among them. Schroeder's aptitude for the miniature certainly would have won her the favor of royalty in a past life. Technically sophisticated and astonishingly executed, her images of fruit, boats and animals recall the realistic Baroque approach of this tradition that requires a magnifying glass. The itty-bitty pieces reflect a craft of the past combined with a personal style that is something entirely new. Let the French miniaturists roll in their graves. Anchoring every show at this gallery is the supreme presentation. The lighting is always superior and enhances the work as does the arrangement of work and inviting environment. Through July 17, 2004; 317-916-6062. –Mary Lee Pappas