Travel the World with Stan Munro contest invites visitors to explore toothpick landmarks at Penfield Public Library

Penfield, New York – Visitors stepping into the Penfield Public Library may feel as though they have suddenly embarked on a journey around the globe. Without ever leaving the building, guests can now explore famous landmarks and architectural wonders from dozens of countries—thanks to the intricate work of a local artist whose unusual medium has captured worldwide attention.

The exhibition features detailed toothpick sculptures created by Stan Munro, the artist behind the ambitious project known as Toothpick World. Munro, who currently lives with his wife in Victor, has spent years building miniature versions of famous structures using nothing more than thousands of wooden toothpicks and a remarkable amount of patience.

The display at the library does more than showcase the artwork. It also invites the public to participate in a playful challenge. The library has launched the “Travel the World with Stan Munro” contest, encouraging visitors to see how many of the tiny architectural landmarks they can correctly identify.

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Participants simply need to pick up an entry form during their visit, study the sculptures carefully, and submit their guesses. Completed forms can be dropped into a gray collection box inside the library. Entries must be submitted by Thursday, April 30, to qualify for a prize.

The contest adds an interactive twist to an exhibit that already draws curiosity and admiration. Many visitors may remember Munro from a previous display hosted by the library featuring his striking toothpick recreation of the RMS Titanic, a piece that fascinated guests with its surprising level of detail.

Munro’s path toward becoming a world-recognized toothpick artist began decades ago. While attending Penfield High School in 1985, he enrolled in a technical drawing class. That experience sparked a deep interest in architecture—an interest that would later shape his artistic career in an unexpected way.

Years later, a personal challenge changed everything. When his wife, Suzi, became seriously ill, Munro turned to building small structures from toothpicks as a form of art therapy. What began as a quiet, supportive hobby soon grew into something much larger. The creative process offered him a way to stay focused and positive while supporting his wife through difficult health struggles.

Over time, those simple toothpick experiments evolved into an extraordinary body of work. Since 2005, Munro has displayed his creations in thirteen museums and has set four records with Guinness World Records. His growing collection now includes more than 200 structures representing fifty-nine different countries.

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Every model follows the same precise scale of 1:164, allowing the collection to function as a miniature world of architecture. Famous landmarks, historical buildings, and recognizable skylines have all been carefully recreated using countless toothpicks, arranged piece by piece.

Despite the impressive scope of the project, the motivation behind the work remains deeply personal. Munro continues building new structures as a tribute to his wife, who has survived multiple medical procedures over the years.

The Penfield Public Library says it is grateful for the opportunity to host Munro’s work and share it with the community. The exhibit offers visitors not only a look at remarkable craftsmanship but also a reminder of how creativity can emerge from life’s most difficult moments.

For library guests, the experience is simple yet memorable. Walk through the display, examine each tiny landmark, test your knowledge of world architecture, and perhaps discover how a handful of toothpicks can tell a story that stretches across continents.