Seashell Ornament by Carrie Goller

Carrie Goller has given charming shells from the sea new purpose as artful ornaments. 

These beautiful and delicate shells have been collected from along Washington state's beautiful Hood Canal where the artist and her studio reside. They have been lovingly transformed into unique ornament art. Each piece is handmade and consists of seashells, fine papers (often using the artist's own creature and nature paintings), which are hand-applied and coated multiple times with medium. The finishing touch is a fine edging in liquid 18k gold or silver leaf. Then a colorful ribbon is attached for hanging. These really must be seen in person to fully appreciate the look and feel, which is truly unique, although close to that of fine ceramics.

MY PROCESS
This shell jewelry is hand-crafted with a fine level of detail from cleaning, to water drilling, to applying images, trim and findings. Fine paper imagery is selected and carefully set on a base of medium and then sealed with multiple layers of medium to impart a refined porcelain feel and look. The delicate liquid 18k gold or silver leaf edging is a beautiful finishing touch. The back of each shell is left in its natural and beautiful condition. They are thoroughly cleaned beforehand.

ABOUT VARNISH SHELLS
Please see photos for examples. Size: The shells range in sizes from approximately 2 5/8 x 3 3/4" to 3 1/4" x 4". Due to the natural spots on the shells (please see photo) with some of the fine papers you may see these spots come through faintly. If that is not for you, please let me know and the shell can be painted before paper is applied so as not to see the spots, although most do find the natural markings and variations to be beautiful.