These are the fascinating pictures of miniature table sculptures molded around bonsai trees that take up to a painstaking 18 months to create. Japanese illustrator Takanori Aiba, 58, has built the intriguing scale models of windmills, lighthouses and even the Michelin Man.He delicately uses craft paper, plaster, acrylic resin, paint and plastic to create the host of sprawling miniature communities that wrap around the tiny trees.Following his work as an illustrator for Japanese fashion magazine POPYE he has spent the last nine years producing the detailed mini worlds.The creations take at least three months to construct with his Ice Cream Package Tower taking an astonishing 18 months work. Since 2003, he has made eight models, with 10 more planned over the next few years.
A host of websites that are almost twenty years old are collecting a cult following thanks to their retro appeal .
BURSTING colours of reds, pinks and purples give the illusion of a collection of stunning flowers .
A GLOWING range of greens and blues sweep across the sky in a spectacular display of light .
An aerial view of flooding in Gloucestershire .
SURROUNDED by divers, a hungry green sea turtle enjoys being the centre of attention .
MEET the underwater British seal who is so friendly he loves to grapple divers like a friendly puppy dog .
BLOWING bubbles underwater, this adorable polar bear slides into his tank for a playful dip .
A DETERMINED great blue heron holds on tightly to its prey as the furry gopher attempts to wriggle free .
An adorable orangutan named Pongo celebrates his first birthday at Zoo Atlanta, Georgia, America .
AN ITALIAN mechanic has created the world’s most ferocious mini-car .
An osprey soars through the air at 30 miles per hour before swooping down to catch its prey from a lake .
THIS is the fascinating abandoned house, complete with mystery portraits and homely items, that has been dubbed - crooked cottage .