The Artists League of the Sandhills Exchange Street Gallery is presenting a visual delight of small and miniature works of art in an exhibition opening Sunday, July 31.

The gallery, located in Aberdeen, in the old Aberdeen Rockfish Railroad storage terminal, features the artwork of its members working in oils, acrylics, watercolors, inks and drawing mediums.

"The Jewels in the Sandhills" exhibition features two-dimensional work sized 8- by 10-inches or less.

The idea of working in miniature began with the illustrated manuscripts produced by monks in the 12th through 14th centuries.

In the succeeding years, the painting of portraits on small pieces of ivory, porcelain and vellum using oil and watercolor paints became popular, peaking during the 17th and 18th centuries.

With the introduction of photography and the changing tastes of the art world, the art of miniature painting declined in popularity.

The opening reception will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 31, with the exhibition and sale continuing through Aug. 26. The reception is open to the public. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from noon to 3 p.m.

The Artists League building also houses art studios and classrooms and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closing for lunch from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

The Artists League of the Sandhills is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 to promote interest in the visual arts by providing quality art education and a friendly environment in which to work, exhibit and sell members' artwork.

The League is located at 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen. For information, visit the website www.artistleague.org or call (910) 944-3979.