Miniature art is a kind of traditional art, where details and subtleties stand out. Throughout its history, the miniature has played a crucial role in presenting cultural values and creating spatial perception. This art is an aesthetic means of expression. It is also a method that can be a basis of inspiration in urban planning.
In miniatures, space is not only a physical entity but also a concept adorned with stories and social contexts. This approach requires considering not only the physical needs of people but also their cultural and social relations in urban planning. In miniatures, buildings, streets and people are depicted in harmony. The spatial structures in miniature contain micro-level details. This provides detailed information about the period in which the miniature was produced. In traditional miniatures, we see that the natural environment is treated in harmony with human settlements. Mountains, rivers and trees play a central role in urban portraits, and man-made elements are integrated in a balanced way with these natural aspects. This understanding can provide a basis for re-establishing the harmony of nature and city lost in the contemporary times of cities.
Miniature art is also important in terms of preserving and strengthening urban identity. As a traditional art form, miniature carries the heritage of the past to the present. Considering this heritage in urban planning preserves the historical fabric of a city and at the same time enables innovative designs for the future.
The spatial arrangements, functional designs and social contexts in miniatures are strong bases for urban planning. This data can be employed to design contemporary cities in a more human-centred, sustainable and aesthetically rich way. Miniatures present the urban organization of the past as a visual map and have the potential to re-establish the balance between culture, nature and people in today’s cities.
