Artists are known for their ability to push boundaries and create masterpieces using unconventional materials. However, there is one artist who was born in England to Jamaican parents, who takes this concept to a whole new level. Willard Wiggan, a visionary artist hailing from a small town in England, has gained international recognition for his extraordinary talent of creating art in the eye of needles.
As a child Wiggan was diagnosed with Dyslexia and Asperger syndrome, now known as Autism. Though he was unable to read and often ridiculed in school, his mother identified his gift of creating small pieces of art at an early age and told him that the smaller he makes things, the bigger he would become in life.
Fascinated by the delicacy and precision of needlework, he had apparently discovered a hidden talent for crafting intricate designs using the tiniest of spaces. As he grew older, Wiggan honed his skills, experimenting with various techniques and perfecting his ability to create detailed artwork within the eye of a needle.
Creating art on such a minuscule scale requires an exceptional level of patience and precision. To create the tiny sculptures he has trained himself to be very still, slowing down his breathing and becoming aware of background vibration and even his pulse. Wiggan spends hours, sometimes even days, meticulously crafting his masterpieces, using magnifying glasses and specialized tools to ensure every minute detail is captured. From landscapes and portraits to abstract compositions, Wiggan’s artwork transcends the boundaries of what seems possible.
The demand for Wiggan’s artwork has skyrocketed over the years, as art collectors and enthusiasts are captivated by his extraordinary talent. Each piece of art he creates is a testament to his craftsmanship and dedication, making them highly sought after in the art world. However, due to the intricate and time-consuming nature of his work, the cost of Wiggan’s art is considerable.
The price tag for Wiggan’s needle art varies depending on the complexity and size of the piece. While smaller compositions can fetch around $5,000, larger and more intricate artworks have been known to sell for upwards of $50,000. Collectors and art enthusiasts recognize the tremendous skill and effort that goes into creating these miniature wonders, making them willing to invest in Wiggan’s exceptional creations. Owners of his art pieces include King Charles III, Sir Elton John, Sir Philip Green, Lord Bath, Mike Tyson and Simon Cowell to name but a few.
Some of the world’s most esteemed art collectors proudly own Wiggan’s needle art. His pieces have found their way into private collections of renowned individuals, including high-profile celebrities, business tycoons, and art connoisseurs. The exclusivity of owning a Wiggan artwork adds to its allure, as it is not only a testament to the collector’s refined taste but also a celebration of the artist’s extraordinary talent.
Wiggan’s art exhibitions have been held in prestigious galleries across the globe, from London to New York, showcasing his incredible craftsmanship to a captivated audience. His works have also been featured in prominent art publications and have garnered widespread acclaim from critics and art enthusiasts alike.
Willard Wiggan’s artistic journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Through his ability to create art in the eye of needles, he has carved a niche for himself in the art world, captivating audiences with his miniature wonders. His painstakingly crafted pieces, though small in size, leave an indelible impact on those who have the privilege of witnessing them. As Wiggan continues to push the boundaries of his art, his legacy as a visionary artist will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
In 2018 Mr Wiggan received an honorary doctorate from the University of Warwick for his achievements.
His work has also earned him two world records for the smallest sculptures ever created entirely by human hand.
