Gathering shells is part of summer for many of us – or we bring them back from a winter break somewhere on tropical islands. When this single shell put on a stand it remind us of this other time and place.
The intricate beauty of shells has captivated humans through the ages. These gift of nature have been put to an amazing array of uses – sharpened into tolls, ground to make medicine, blown to make music. Shells were used as currency from Americas throughout Africa and Asia, and worm amulets to bring good fortune or protection from evil eyes. Above all, beauty of shells has fired imagination ofs of artist and craftsmen. From the simplest string of beads to design in gold and precision stones, shells have inspired centuries of exquisite inventions in silverware, ceramics, glass, textiles, furniture and fashion. Depictions of shells, whether mythological, symbolic, decorative, botanical or fanciful – are a recurring theme in visual art from ancient to present. Shell were among the exotic treasures brought back from the voyages of discovery. Sailor Valentines, as an oldest form of american art, experience renaissance right now with modern masters. Shell can be collected responsibly today without harming marine environment.
A bag of shells brought back with triumph, but now sitting on a closet shelf. Can we do something with it so it will be like expensive gift item we would admire? Did you wonder how to make one? Wonder no more. Those girls attended seashell art workshops at Art Fun Studio taught by award winning artist, Alla Baksanskaya, and have a good time creating seashell mosaic. The challenge was to have create beautiful artwork during art class and have fun. With step-by-step instruction and guidance, this kids were able to achieve wonderful results. The story of seashell get a lot of interest among kids.
It is symbolic that in cold New York, just before New Year eve, we had a warm seashell mosaic workshop which brought thought of summer and summer break.
To get a glimpse of seashell art works, check my photo album from Sanibel shell Show.
