British artist Slinkachu began the “Little People Project” in 2006. He starts with miniature train set figures, paints and remodels them as necessary, adds props and sets them in place. Then he photographs his creations and leaves them on the street.

There’s something remarkably haunting about his work. He creates an entire alternate universe right in the middle of our universe, offering a silent critique of the bigger world that firmly engages the imagination.

To quote the artist from his website: “The scenes I set up, more evident through the photography and the titles I give these scenes, aim to reflect the loneliness and melancholy of living in a big city, almost being lost and overwhelmed. But underneath this, there is always some humor. I want people to be able to empathize with the tiny people in my works.”

I first discovered Slinkachu’s work at Web Urbanist, which provides an intriguing introduction to his miniature city scenes. That led me to his own website, slinkachu.com, where you can see much more of his work, purchase the books he’s assembled, and find out where his work will be displayed next.

Wouldn’t you just love to encounter one of these in real life?

And if you like Slinkachu, here’s some more miniature art you might enjoy.