I was born in Armenia and lived there for most of my life. I was introduced to the world of seashells as a child
during my family’s summer vacations at the seaside in Russia. It never occurred to me then that seashells could be
used to create wonderful works of art, or that my childhood pastime would evolve into an art form and hobby years
later. I attended a Polytechnic University in Armenia where I got a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering.
I moved to Southern California 13 years ago and continued my hobby of collecting seashells at Laguna Beach. For
a while I used to make sugar flowers for wedding cakes, which turned out to be a useful ability for making flowers
from seashells. Also, the drawing and drafting skills I developed as an engineer come in handy when I am trying
to come up with more complex and intricate designs and patterns for my shell art. I started making shell art in
2008 after seeing an episode of the Martha Stewart show about shell shows and Sailor’s Valentines. It’s funny
how a simple TV show could change my life so radically. That was where I first heard about the Sanibel Shell
Show. After doing some research and buying a book about the history of Sailor’s Valentines, I wanted to try my
hand at making a piece. However, I decided to put my own spin on things, develop my own style, so I started out
by making contemporary, non-traditional valentines in rectangular boxes instead of octagonal ones. I drew a
pattern and just jumped right into the work, teaching myself as I went along.
In March 2009, I participated in the Sanibel Shell Show for the first time, where all three of the works I
showcased were awarded ribbons: two of them got first place, one of those a Best Novice Exhibit Award, and the
third one got second place.
One of my goals as an emerging shell artist is to spread awareness and appreciation of Sailor’s Valentines here in
California, because unfortunately most people here haven’t heard of this beautiful art form which has now become
not only just a hobby for me but also a passion.
 |  |  |  |  |  |
 |
| Karine Mirzakhanyan Glendale, California |
| Seashellsandwood.com A Showcase for Seashell Art |
 | |  | |  | |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Sold |
 |
 |
| In A Garden 2nd Place Ribbon - Professional - Novelty 2010 Sanibel Shell Show: |
