Welcome to the Studio!

Hello and welcome! Whether you’ve found us by chance or through a kindred spirit’s recommendation, we’re so glad you’re here. At Shelley Vanderbyl Art Studio & Apothecary Boutique, we’ve created a space to help you navigate life’s seasons with beauty, warmth, and meaning. This blog is our heartfelt way of reaching out—a place where we can share our journey, offer insights, and walk alongside you wherever you are.

Who We Are

Shelley Vanderbyl is the artist behind the soothing, meaningful works that fill our shop and your hearts. Her deep empathy and dedication to blessing others have shaped everything you’ll discover here—from vast (and tiny) immersive works of fine art for your home, to sensory gifts like candles, incense, and meaningful cards ready for life's colour-wheel of moments: sadness, bittersweet and overflowing joy.

I’m Danny Vanderbyl, Shelley’s husband, business partner, and a Search and Rescue pilot. My joy in this adventure is to mine nuggets of wisdom from research into productivity, mental health, and grief—and to offer them to you as one passes a candle to a friend. Together, Shelley and I bring our unique perspectives to the shop and this blog, weaving art and encouragement into every aspect of what we do.

What You Can Expect From Our Blog

This blog is designed for those who, though physically far from our Trenton / Quinte West / Belleville / Prince Edward County, Ontario studio, are connected in spirit. Perhaps you’re someone seeking comfort, inspiration, or a way to add the warmth of hygge to the challenging seasons of life. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• A Window Into Shelley’s Art Practice: Learn about the stories and artistic intent behind specific pieces of artwork. We’ll invite you into the creative process and share the research Shelley draws on to create her comforting visuals.

• Navigating Grief and Life’s Transitions: Drawing from resources like The Grief Recovery Handbook, we’ll explore how our sensory gifts—including our "Sitting with Sadness" and "How to Decide" card decks, incense, and candles—can offer tangible support to you or a friend facing difficult times.

• Seasonal Reflections: Discover ways to create warmth and connection during life’s darker seasons, like winter. From the glow of a candle to the quiet comfort of a small, portable painting, we’ll share ideas to bring light to your days.

• Behind the Scenes: Peek into the everyday life of our studio, from Shelley’s art-making process to the meaning behind our curated shop offerings.

More to Explore

We’re excited to share not only blog posts but also in-depth podcast episodes and videos that will deepen your connection with our work and mission. These will give you new ways to experience the healing and inspiration Shelley’s art brings.

Share Your Ideas With Us

We’d love to hear from you! What topics would you like us to cover? Are there healing products you’d like to see in our shop? Or perhaps there are areas where you’re seeking encouragement and inspiration. Your feedback helps us create a space that truly serves your needs. Feel free to reach out through email or connect with us on social media—we’re always listening.

A Healing Place For All

At its heart, our studio is a space for healing, reflection, and transformation. Whether you’re drawn to the therapeutic themes in Shelley’s fine art or the comforting rituals inspired by our gift shop products, we want you to feel welcomed and encouraged here.

So, come along for the journey with us. Let’s navigate the seasons of life together—with beauty, meaning, and hope lighting the way.

Warmly,

Danny & Shelley Vanderbyl