The
Charming Tails collection of figurines, ornaments, and lighted buildings was
first available in 1994. As early as 1995, Griff was receiving notice and awards
for his endearing renditions of woodland friends. Born and raised on a farm in
rural New York State, Griff always enjoyed watching the display of nature in the
fields and woods surrounding his home. An early artistic talent emerged in Griff
as he painted dramatic, detailed murals on the side of the family barn. This
talent eventually led to the submission of twelve product sketches to the
director of product development for a major Christmas and giftware manufacturer.
Many more sketches were requested and Dean Griff's Charming Tails collection was
born.
Artist Dean Griff has a love for animals, and this love is reflected in his line of small sculptures called Charming Tails®. Dean grew up in a rural area of New York, where his family worked on a farm. This helped to encourage his love for animals, and inspired many murals that he once painted on the side of the family’s barn. The joy of nature inspired Dean to create his own unique artwork and small sculptures. The sculptures are usually woodland animals, and he most commonly uses mice. The collection first began in 1993 and was first named The Woodland Collection. When the company Fitz and Floyd took over the collection, it changed the name to Charming Tails® which has stuck ever since.
The beauty of the Charming Tails® lies in their detail. The figurines are usually made of resin, and consist of bright colors, pearly paints, and plastic pieces that give the sculptures depth and detail. Over the years, Charming Tails® have become more and more intricate, inspiring new collectors every day. The mice are wonderful and whimsical, and his use of other animals together with the mice makes it a terrific gift for any animal lover. As with most collectible items, the Charming Tails® figurines are usually produced in limited quantities, and have been known to have a high resale value.
Charming Tails® has their own collector’s club, called the Leaf and Acorn Club. Fans join together worldwide to discuss the latest collections, and swap pieces. Special members-only pieces are also available once you join. Dean Griff has named the town where his little animals live Squashville, so the collector’s newsletter is entitled the Squashville Gazette. The Charming Tails® collection is a wonderful, whimsical way to add cuteness and joy to any home.
