Jo Levin
Miniaturist, Scale Modeller and commercial displays artist.

 

Jo Levin is a highly skilled and innovative miniaturist and scale modeler specializing in landscape terrain, with a particular focus on scale woodwork and resin pours. As one of the pioneers in crafting vertical terrain that can be played, such as cliffs and playable stone pillars, Jo's work is often associated with fantasy themes but remains genre-agnostic due to its emphasis on nature and water effects.

With 95% of the designs being original creations, Jo incorporates client-specific themes and niche elements upon request. Utilizing materials such as foam, paints, resins, and 3D printing, Jo has developed unique techniques, including a new method of using pipe cleaners to craft realistic tree armatures and creating intricate water effects ranging from waterfalls to magical water spells. Jo always uses real wood for wooden elements, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and durability during play.

Growing up with a father who owned a woodwork school for children, Jo spent 10 years working for the family business before his own model-making career took over. Jo has been building custom-made pieces professionally for 17 years. The creations serve multiple purposes, including sales, custom commissions, personal display, and gameplay. Notably, one piece is permanently exhibited at the Young V&A Museum in East London, UK.

Working in a range of scales and sizes, Jo builds game boards up to 4x8 feet and commissioned pieces as small as a shoebox. The largest commissioned piece to date is a vertical wall-mounted cliff measuring 3.6 meters wide and 2.1 meters tall. Offering both custom work and commissions, Jo infuses each piece with storytelling elements, encouraging viewers to explore the intricate details and interpret the scenes.

Driven by a lifelong passion for miniatures, Jo finds immense joy and satisfaction in creating miniature worlds. This dedication has led to notable achievements, including work displayed at the Young V&A Museum, conducting terrain-building workshops at D&D in a Castle events, and building the largest playable wall installation at a gaming store in North London. With a strong social media following of over 50,000, Jo also shares expertise and inspires others to build their own terrain and dioramas.