The Butler Area Public Library proudly presents The Big World of Miniatures Exhibit. Throughout May and June, this exhibit features 3-dimensional panoramic views of historic events and battles using miniature pieces collected, painted and curated by Evan Johnson.
For Evan, collecting miniatures is an extension of a long-held affinity for history. Gaming with these pieces allows him to interact with history in a fun and novel way.
“I can learn more about famous battles and the events leading up to and following wars,” Evan said of gaming with miniatures. “I can even refight conflicts to see what (alternative outcomes) might possibly happen.”
With nearly 4,000 painted and unpainted pieces in his collection, Evan is able to set up about 30 rule sets, or gaming scenarios.
“All of my miniatures are built and used for specific rules or games,” he said. “Almost all of those are miniature games, but I do have some that I use for RPG games as well.”
Some games, Evan said, are played as small skirmishes, with only a dozen or so figures. Others are full-blown battles involving entire army corps. Scenarios can be scaled in size to suit the desires and needs of the gameplayers.
A Kittanning native, Evan has been collecting and painting miniatures for about seven years and has recently started basic painting sessions on the YouTube channel he shares with the Tabletop Gaming Guild, a local organization composed primarily of members from Butler and Armstrong counties.
The group hosts the Tabletop Gaming Guild Channel, featuring a weekly YouTube show on board and tabletop game topics, including playthrough of popular games. Evan is also involved with the Circle of Swords gaming conventions, held each spring and fall in Butler.
The world of miniatures is no small thing. Collectors and gamers from around the world come together online and in person for events ranging from small-group gaming sessions to large, multi-day events. Evan’s gamingadventures include assisting with the Little Wars TV Discord group and attendance at conventions of the Historical Miniatures Gaming Society.
On the surface, Evan knows this hobby can seem intimidating,but he has advice for anyone considering collecting and gaming with miniatures.
“If you can find a moment in history that interests you, you will find miniatures relating to that event. Grab a couple of friends and try it out. You might be surprised by how fun, exciting and accessible this hobby can be.”
The Big World of Miniatures Exhibit will be on display from May 3 to June 30 in the second-floor showcases at the Butler Area Public Library, 218 North McKean St., Butler until June 30. For information, contact 724-287-1715 or visit www.facebook.com/ButlerAreaPublicLibrary. |