Nestled on the peninsula of Istria in the Adriatic - Rovinj is a popular Croatian retreat for artists - to relax and become inspired.

But every spring - local artisans are joined by hundreds of artists from around the globe. They flock to the sleepy town for the "Lilliput" miniature ceramics exhibition.

The exhibition was first organized in 1980 by Croatian artist Hanibal Salvaro. Since then, it's become one of the most prestigious regular ceramics events in the world.

This year 325 artists from 71 countries are presenting their miniature sculptures.

Hanibal Salvaro, curator, said, "This concept gives artists the chance to participate in a world class exhibition and not invest too much money, sometimes not even sophisticated technology, no matter which country they live in."

Twelve awards are presented, including the prestigious "Award Croatia" and "Grande Prix Trophy". Winners are chosen by an international panel of jurors.

Estonian artist, Merike's Hallik, picked up "Honourable Mention" for her work, "White Bird".

The Lilliput Exhibition ran from March 14th to April 14th 2008.

More than 300 artists have contributed to the Lilliput Exhibition in Croatia's Istria peninsula, where sculptures need to be less than 17cms tall and under a kilogram in weight.

Hanibal Salvaro is the Curator of an exhibition center where the exhibition is held.

"This concept gives artists the possibility to participate in a world class exhibition and not invest too much money, sometimes not even sophisticated technology, no matter which country they live in."

Hanibal Salvaro is also a Croatian artist who set up the exhibition in 1980. The exhibition has since become one of the most prestigious regular ceramics events in the world.

This year, over 300 artists from 71 countries are presenting their miniature sculptures.

The Lilliput Exhibition ran till mid April 2008.