If you walk along Main Street’s west walkway, just south of 6th Avenue, you will encounter a colourful and interesting object nestled in the doorway to a small business complex. Anyone familiar with the concept of a “Little Library,” the birdhouse shaped condominium for books that neighbourhood walkers can take and replace with a new one, might mistake this little domicile.
It’s Humboldt’s first “Little Art Gallery,” where art aficionados can pick out a tiny art curio and leave one in its place.
It’s the brainchild of Yoon Jin Park who operates Your Journey (YJ) Art Therapy in the building. Free Little Art Galleries (FLAG) have been popping up in various regions of North America, and the idea is simple – make connections by spreading a little art.
“I’ve been wanting to do this a long time,” Park shared in an interview. “It’s a way for people to express their creativity, connect with others, and share a piece of themselves—whether they’re practiced artists or just starting to explore that part of themselves.”
The gallery itself was a collaborative effort built and painted by volunteers from the local community. A parent of one of Park’s art students and a skilled carpenter constructed the gallery. Local school teacher Kayla Hansen—well-known in the community for her passion for art and service—took on the decorating.
“It was actually made by three people,” Park explained. “From different communities, even outside of Humboldt. That kind of collaboration, that generosity - that’s what this project is about.”
The gallery operates on the honor system: anyone is welcome to leave a piece of art and take one home. Contributions range from small paintings and clay sculptures to collages, embroidery, or other mixed media. While some artists choose to remain anonymous, Park encourages people to sign and date their work.
“It’s important that people are recognized,” she said. “We’re human beings - we want to be seen, and we want to feel that our voice matters, even through a small piece of art.”
The concept gained momentum during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, when contactless ways of connecting became vital.
“During COVID, art exchanges like this became more popular,” said Park. “People were painting rocks, sending art cards. It was a way to feel seen and connected even when we couldn’t be close. This is a continuation of that energy.”
Although open to all, Park monitors the gallery to maintain a safe and positive space.
“I check it daily, just to make sure there’s no vandalism or anything harmful,” she explained. “We want to support all kinds of expression - sadness, anger, frustration - but within a respectful and compassionate context. That’s where the healing happens.”
Park sees the gallery not only as an outlet for creativity but also as a subtle form of therapy.
“You don’t need a diagnosis or an appointment,” she said. “You just stop by, see someone else’s story in their art, and maybe leave a piece of your own. That’s community healing. It’s quiet, but powerful.”
The Tiny Art Gallery at Your Journey Art Therapy is open to the public and located on-site at the clinic at 535 Main Street in Humboldt. Donations and artistic contributions are welcome at any time.