July, 2025
Featured Artist

My passion for the tiny world began at the age of five when I spent countless hours designing dollhouses, losing myself in their intricate details. After a 32-year journey owning a chain of home stores, I retired to the serene surroundings of Ojai, where I embraced a new adventure in raising chickens. I carefully selected breeds based on the vibrant colors of their eggs, which sparked the idea for designing miniature chicken dioramas crafted inside of cigar boxes.

What started as simple representations of chicken coops infused with my love for animals has evolved into a more sophisticated collection. Each piece now showcases whimsical activities, travels, and art, accompanied by charming elements like Bougainvillea doorways, cozy coffee moments with a newspaper, or a stroll down a Parisian Street.

Every diorama features a chicken at its heart, and occasionally, a Frenchie or two makes an appearance. I call them “Storyboxes” because there is a story behind each one, reflecting inspiration drawn from life’s simple joys.

– Carey Appel Pearlman

website: onceuponastorybox.com
social: @onceuponastorybox