Derby Street Diorama Museum
The Vision
The Derby Street Diorama Museum (DSDM) stands as a testament to the power of miniature storytelling. Every exhibit offers the chance to transform everyday objects into gateways to extraordinary realms. No story is too small™. The diorama museum displays diorama's created by the curator and the community, and enthusiastically accepts submissions from local diorama enthusiasts. Get in touch for more info!
Current Exhibitions - Derby Wing
East Gallery
During the pandemic shutdown, Kitt discovered a well-hidden artistic talent for collage with paint color cards - so happy to find a medium that requires zero ability to draw. She is even more encouraged to learn that when 3.5% of a population persists in nonviolent civil resistance, authoritarian regimes crumble. A well researched study has found this percentage sufficient across a wide variety of places and circumstances. Kitt, a retired librarian, cares about well-reasoned conclusions drawn from reliable, factual data.
Think about this - 3.5% - fewer that four people out of every hundred - resisting in various ways. We can do it, and we must.
West Gallery
I create art in a variety of media including textiles, ceramics, and photography. I feel a sense of appreciation for viewers and want to make them smile. I always use color to enhance my pieces.
MEDITATION is my first diorama, and it is an homage to the meditation class I taught for many years. In the difficult times we live in, in 2025, I want to bring a sense of peace and wonder to the world. This piece was created using found objects from my home and various thrift and hobby stores in the Bay Area as well as magazines and oil paintings and is held together with glue and prayers. Some pieces have been painted or modified. I always work in a collaborative manner and help was offered by the following people: Debbie, Linda, Sue, Sam, Judi, Diana
South Gallery
Where does your mind wander in the linimal moments before slumber? Mine says "monsters!" An exploration of the monsters that haunt or delight us.
This piece was inspired by pregancy and an unusual abundance of free time.
The History of Derby Street Diorama Museum
The museum opened February 8, 2025 following several months of exhibition design that began in summer 2024 and concluded in summer 2024. The occasion was marked by an informal gala that was attended by approximately 10 neighbors and esteemed community leaders. Two wines were served. Some say dioramas allow you to peek into a tiny, separate world, but we believe that dioramas also hold up a mirror to the viewer, allowing one to peer into their own soul. What mysteries and delights is your soul waiting to share? Click here to submit your idea today and receive a free shoebox to start your journey! Or just come knock on our door.
Submit Your Diorama
The DSDM encourages submissions from the community, and is excited to help your diorama-making dreams come true! Here's a little info to get you started, please get in touch if you are interested!
- All materials must be properly secured
- We encourage dioramas to be built with found objects and recycled items
- Artist statement (optional, max 50 words)
- A link to your website (if available)
- Dioramas are displayed for one month and then returned to the artist.
- Available gallery sizes (width x height):
- West gallery 13.5" x 9"
- East gallery 12.5" x 10"
- South gallery 8" x 13"