It is wonderful to see the resurgence and appreciation of this old art form inspired by the aesthetic beauty of shells,
gifts from the sea for us all. I lived in the Bahamas for many years where I first became acquainted with Sailor's
Valentines. I am a Canadian artist now living in Toronto. After being involved in many aspects of the decorative
arts for many years, I am now devoted to creating Sailor's Valentines. I also do shell stars, hearts, and roundels
incorporating bubble glass, reminiscent of Victorian times. I like to paint miniature oil paintings for the centers of
my designs. A table I have done features a 19th century painted ivory. I do scrimshaw on ivory and sometimes
carve little ivory fish to add interest to my valentines. Often I line the inside walls of the box with silk or place
my shell flowers on a silk cushion. Pictured below are my single and double valentine entries in the Sanibel Shell
Show for 2009, 2008, and 2007. All six earned ribbons, two of which were blue (1st place) . I also recieved the
Judges Special Award for my 2007 double valentine. My valentines are seen in galleries and at the Royal
Canadian Yacht Club. My art has been featured in both Canadian and American magazines. Creating valentines
is a fascinating and challenging craft ; a labor of love to all of us who do them.
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