Collection: The Secret Gallery @ The Hair Room Gstaad

How would it feel if you could escape to a familiar place at any moment's notice? “The Secret Gallery” consists of tiny oil paintings in vintage medicine tins made by Canadian multidisciplinary artist Shelley Vanderbyl.

Utilizing the concept of Miniscule Awe, with works as small as 3-4 cm across, Vanderbyl leverages Attention Restoration Theory by drawing the brain into its fascination mode, allowing directed attention to rest. The works in the exhibition stem from a personal project that began around 2010 involving gifting portable artworks to those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress. The recipients could access calming scenes of nature, made with great care by another human's touch. These pieces become secret portals to other parts of the world, always accessible to provide solace.

Vanderbyl's art-as-medicine project has grown significantly, reaching hospitals and care homes. Her work has been presented to royalty and in art fairs and exhibitions worldwide. A recent project involved bringing a case of Medicinal Paintings to elders at care homes in Sweden, providing them with a sense of exploration and adventure, even within the confines of their home.

To collect Shelley’s work, and start your own secret gallery, click the images below.

Shipping once the show ends, or free pickup in Gstaad, approximately end-August 2024.