Penny Thomson is a UK-based micro family business run by artist Penny Thomson and her two daughters, Briony and Maud. Based in Derbyshire,
Penny has worked as an artist and designer for over 40 years. They describe their creations as “Magical Moving Miniatures”—intricate, handmade kinetic sculptures that fit in the palm of your hand and come to life with the turn of a small crank handle.
Penny’s work primarily focuses on the natural world, combining a deep passion for wildlife with whimsical storytelling. The sculptures often feature expressive animals—like hungry chicks, impatient zebras, and mythical creatures like sirens—interacting with organic elements such as leaves, rocks, and water. Her process is highly sustainable, heavily utilizing recycled materials, papier-mâché (made from pulp and household waste paper), and cardboard. By integrating traditional automata mechanics with delicate, lifelike sculpting, she crafts mesmerizing dioramas that bridge contemporary art and classic mechanical toys.
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