In the era before modern technology, entertainment was derived from analog sources such as live music, art shows, theater performances, games, and books. One popular form of entertainment in the 18th century was the tunnel book, also known as “peep shows.” These intricate books combined storytelling with layers that created the illusion of depth and perspective when opened.
Artist Shelley Aldrich draws inspiration from the traditional tunnel books to create her vibrant series of folded visual narratives. Using watercolor and gouache, she paints scenes that reference folk tales and famous stories like “The Chronicles of Narnia” and “The Hobbit.” Aldrich, a self-taught illustrator, began her artistic journey later in life after a career in marketing and financial analysis. She found solace in painting as a way to keep her mind active while raising her children.
Aldrich learned the art of creating tunnel books from another artist on Instagram and adapted the technique to suit her unique style. She has always been fascinated by crafts and objects with hidden compartments, which led her to explore the world of paper art. Her creations often feature nature-inspired scenes and elements from well-known stories, such as the magical portal from “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.”
Currently, Aldrich is experimenting with combining tunnel books with Victorian puzzle purses, a form of paper art used to exchange private messages. She hopes to revive the sense of wonder and magic that can sometimes be lost in adulthood through her art. By exploring vintage paper art techniques and creating modern pieces that push the boundaries of traditional tunnel books, Aldrich aims to evoke a sense of childlike wonder in her audience.
To see more of Aldrich’s work, visit her website and Instagram page. Her intricate tunnel books and folded narratives showcase her creativity and passion for storytelling through paper art. Each piece is a labor of love, crafted with attention to detail and a desire to transport viewers to a world of imagination and magic.
