Diorama: Social and Political Commentary In Miniature

On June 13th, an exhibit of miniature dioramas (Dioramas: Social and Political Commentary in Miniature) will be displayed at The Englert Theatre Gallery in Iowa City as part of Pride Month.

The dioramas were crafted by Jefri Palermo over a period of 4 years. They have been displayed individually in a miniature outdoor theatre called the Prairiegrass Playhouse, but this is the first time they will be exhibited as a group.

“Diorama: Social and Political Commentary in Miniature”, will show the expression of a variety of themes such as climate change, income inequality, reproductive choice, racism, and LGBTQ pride. Some of the scenes won prizes at the Iowa State Fair.

The exhibit is for one night only, from 6-9 pm in the upstairs gallery of The Englert Theatre, 221 East Washington St.

“It started as a hobby during the pandemic and resulted in 35 dioramas that address a variety of political themes. Some are just silly and fun. I have a background in both theater and social work, so the dioramas combine my interests and express my feelings about political and social issues. The detailed miniature format makes difficult themes more accessible and humorous”, Palermo describes.

The exhibit is free and open to the public and runs for one night only.