About the Artist

Lisa McQuaid

Lisa McQuaid's enthusiasm for miniatures began in 1995. Her stained glass business thrived for over 10 years, but she wanted a new creative outlet. While attending an International Dollhouse and Miniature Show in Chicago with her mother, she found what she was looking for. One of the exhibitors had dollhouse-size stained glass greenhouses. They were filled with miniature patio furniture and various plants and greenery. The exhibit was an inspiration for Lisa to design and make her own stained glass miniature greenhouse. She also began collecting miniatures.

A Wisconsin native, Lisa now lives near Orlando, Florida with her husband. During the day she works in her studio, taking time off to enjoy gardening, travel, and other creative pursuits.

Her mother, Marilyn Nielsen, has been instrumental in her success. A miniature artist herself for over 25 years, she gives Lisa valuable advice and tips of the trade.

Lisa's love of cooking and fine dining are her inspiration for creating miniature food and beverages. She makes all of the food items by hand (with the exception of some fruit, meat, and candy slices). Ingredients for miniature food might include: polymer clay, paint, tub caulk, resin, air-dry modeling compound, chalk, or sand. Creating these tiny works of art is a labor-intensive process that can test an artist's patience. Lisa strives to make her mini food as authentic-looking as the real thing. As "The Everyday Gourmet" she keeps up with current food trends and turns them into miniature collectibles.

Her food items and beverages are available for sale through her web store at Etsy, various dollhouse and miniature shows, or by special order. Lisa is a member of the International Guild of Miniature Artisans (IGMA) and the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts (NAME).

You can email her at Lisa@McQuaid.com.