“Christmas in Chicago, U.S., is always a time of excitement. The streets are lit up, homes are decorated, and the atmosphere is festive.

This year, I wanted to add something of my own to the holiday spirit. I created the world’s smallest Christ the Redeemer statue, carved onto a pencil lead.

I grew up in a small village named Chinadoddigallu in Vishakapatnam, and I’ve always been drawn to art. My passion for miniature sculptures started when I saw the Etikoppaka artisans near my home. Watching them carve wood and paint tiny, intricate details had a great impact on me. It was then that I realized—art doesn’t have to be big to make an impact.

At 14, I made a miniature Lord Ganesha from glass bangles. My parents were surprised, but they supported me completely. My father is a farmer, and my mother is a homemaker. While some relatives thought my passion was impractical, their doubts only pushed me to keep going.

I went on to complete a master’s in Urban Design from NYU and a doctorate in Arts and Crafts from Peace University, Germany. Yet, my love for miniatures never faded. Whether it’s creating tiny sculptures of historical monuments or cultural symbols, my passion for detail has driven me to keep pushing the boundaries of what can be done in such small forms.

Over the years, I’ve created more than 500 miniature artworks, including replicas of famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, and the World Cup Trophy. Each piece is a tribute to the beauty of Indian craftsmanship and my dedication to showcasing it to the world. My work also includes miniature artwork with respect to Indian Airforce, which has allowed me to blend my love for art with my admiration for our country’s achievements.

The Christ the Redeemer statue was particularly special to me. I spent hours carving every tiny detail. It was challenging, but the result was worth it. It’s not just a sculpture—it’s a symbol of hope and faith. The idea that my work can connect with people worldwide, even in such a small form, is truly gratifying.

At present, I am working as a Project Coordinator with a noted construction company, but I still find time for my art. This year, I’ve had the chance to use my work to raise awareness about Indian craftsmanship here in the US which I feel grateful for and I am eager to present more artworks in the near future.”

– Venkatesh Gattem, Miniature Artist

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