Shell Artist
Last update 7/3/10
I often get commissions near the seaside.
It is great for me as I always try to incorporate as many local shells as possible, by doing this I often find new shells that I have not yet worked with . Not all of my shell work is carried out on location. Sometimes it is prepared or completed in my workshop.
Over the years I have collected a large assortment of shells, I use this collection
for my work unless I am asked to use specific shells or colours.
I do buy shell from shell specialists, choosing ones that are commonly available
at the time.
I never use endangered species.
This piece was used as the front cover for the book "The shell"
This sailor's valentine, probably the largest one ever made, measures 1.50m wide.
The mahogany wood box was made following the traditional rules by a talented carpenter
who became so passionate about building such a strange object. The client placed
a letter which was then sealed into place behind the shell work.
Maybe this letter will never be read...
Many local shells were used including fossilized sharks teeth found on the local beach. This valentine box has been fitted over a fireplace on an island in the bay of Mexico.
Click on picture to see gallery
For the Tain Mussel Project, I had to set up a workshop in the north of Scotland. From there all my project work was created.
Clic on the picture above to have a look.
In my workshop I tend to mainly create shell work base on texture where I only use one type of shell. The light plays a big role in these creations as on the cover of « The Shell » book. My interest in knitting patterns is visible in Ballymaloe but I work motifs out on a smaller scale.