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.
SOME OF the sea’s most terrifying creatures show their softer side as they join a group of diners for lunch .
A woman whose face and body was left scarred for life by angry sores, caused by Lupus, has become a diversity model .
A mother-of-one has revealed how a neighbour’s friend ‘mauled’ her face, leaving her scarred for life .
BLOWING bubbles underwater, this adorable polar bear slides into his tank for a playful dip .
A mum-of-two has worn the same t-shirt for an entire year to raise awareness of a 1 in 7 million condition that prevents her daughter from talking .
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SPLASHING around in a paddling pool, this little elephant soaks up the sunshine .
Magical photos of your baby smiling for the first time are a priceless treasure for many a proud parent .
Playing, splashing and generally messing around, these polar bears show they certainly have a soft spot for the water, and not just each other .