Secret Gallery Happy Lemming

Geheime galerie Happy Lemming is a small-scale, informal gallery in Vlaardingen. The name 'Geheim' (Secret) refers to its original location in an upstairs apartment invisible from the street - and later to the desire to shout something secret from the rooftops. 'Happy Lemming' alludes to humanity rushing toward the abyss while most people pretend nothing is wrong.

The gallery has three aims: generate attention and possible income for active artists through work by well-known (mostly deceased) names; conduct an art project as a light-hearted personal inquiry into the (sales) value of art and the peculiarities of the art trade; and as a foundation support visual arts and improvised music by offering emerging artists a space to exhibit and perform.

Happy Lemming deliberately aims to be less commercial than mainstream art dealing. The foundation is carried by a group of friends, the Happy Lemming Sisterhood - at least 50% women - because the art world has historically been dominated by older white men. Diversity is warmly welcomed.

The gallery is open every Sunday from 13:00 to 17:00.