Imagine 1:164 models of the Taj Mahal, Fenway Park and St. Basil’s Cathedral made entirely of toothpicks. Artist Stan Munro began his toothpicking hobby when he was in the fifth grade and 30 years later it has grown into a way for him to experience distant lands and at the same time create a collection that engages other people to enjoy the iconic monuments.

About 10 years ago, Munro’s wife became ill and he stayed at home to care for her. During that time he began creating 1:164 scale reproductions of architectural masterpieces crafted entirely with toothpicks. “I’m an armchair traveler, for a long time my wife was very sick and we couldn’t go anywhere. I would sit and watch Anthony Bourdain, every show on the Travel, History, and Discovery channels. I would see a building there and think-I gotta build that.”

So Munro got going. Using satellite photos, blueprints and research he explored the intricacies of the world’s monuments and created a travelling exhibition of over 60 famous buildings.

Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton, Massachusetts presents the exhibit, Toothpick World: From Sliver to Skyline, December 19, 2015 – March 27, 2016. There will also be a hands-on building space for kids and other activities for both kids and adults.

Launch Gallery