Surrealist painter Marie Guerlain to exhibit in Switzerland with Adler

Marie Guerlain, of the legendary Guerlain perfume and cosmetics family will use her exhibition ‘Women: Exposing and unveiling the persona’ in December with funds going towards a soon-to-be launched London branch of the international children’s charity, Innocence in Danger (IID)…

Marie has taken the position of London Chairman of IID, which has a presence in 29 countries and works for the protection of sexually abused children as well as prevention of child exploitation via the internet.

The artist will be showcasing much of the work she has produced in her Chelsea studio over the last two years, to raise awareness of IID’s new London office, which she has been instrumental in setting up.

IID Présidente Homayra Sellier says: “The day I decided to set up Innocence in Danger UK, I immediately thought of Marie. Not only do I know to what extend she is motivated and committed to this cause but she is also prepared to fight next to us with huge passion and determination. The fact that she is a professional artist confirmed my choice. Art therapy is an integral part of our work with the children and I know that Marie believes in this 100 per cent.”

Marie has long been passionate about supporting children’s charities, using her celebrity to raise awareness of their missions and raising capital to support their efforts through sales of her artwork. Last September, Marie displayed her Buddha painting in a joint exhibition ‘Art for Starlight’ at London’s famous Saatchi Gallery as an ambassador for Starlight, a charity for seriously and terminally ill children.

“IID’s policy is to provide evidence of what works to improve outcomes for affected children and their families,” Marie explains.

“Our belief lies in the efficiency of the rehabilitation programmes run by IID in Germany, Switzerland and the US. Parents, guardians and clinical staff have said of the programmes offered abroad that “the experience and impact on the children has been life-changing” and producing “breakthroughs in therapy” that otherwise may never have been possible. That’s why the charity and its work is so important to me.”

Adler, the Swiss jewellers, who have long supported both up-and-coming as well as established artists in their own exhibitions and displays are delighted to work with Marie and IID, with exhibitions taking place both in Gstaad and London.

An Adler spokesperson said: “We admire and support the young generation, who is prepared to fight for good causes”.

Marie Guerlain: ‘Women: Exposing and unveiling the persona’ will be exhibiting at Boutique Adler Joaillier, Parkstrasse, 3780 Gstaad between 20 December to January 20. There will be a reception at the gallery from 6pm on 20/12/10.

Marie studied at Parsons School of Design New York and was in New York at the time of the attacks of 9/11. She painted a phoenix rising from the ashes to symbolise this momentous event and her experience of it. See more of her work at: http://www.marieguerlain.com

Every year in Gstaad, Innocence in Danger brings together leading psychologists, doctors and family members to offer a unique experience for children affected by abuse. Minors enjoy rehabilitation workshops through creative therapies including art drama and music. For more information, visit: http://innocenceendanger.org/?id=135