My usual practice is leaving things looking natural, but these are very old shells from my childhood days on the Jersey Shore. They aren't in perfect condition and there was some discoloration. I decided I may use them as props in photos or display with my collection of Sand Castles and other seashells. Two coats of paint just about made them look like something in a fancy schmancy store jewelry case. The paint didn't make my wistfulness for walking on the beach and running in the waves disappear. One day I hope to leave footprints on a beach, okay, maybe not footprints in these polluted times, but sandal prints. I could live dangerously and roll the slacks up to my knees and kick about in the water in the cold autumn winds. If it's warmer, picture me in a sundress, that's my style, too.
There's also a canvas in progress on the desk. At this point there are 3 or 4 layers and I hope it will have the finished look I am imagining when it is all done. All you can see in the image is the wet glue and a star peeking through. There are more layers, glazes, and embellishments to apply before it is ready to be mailed.
What's your attachment to childhood collections? Rocks, shells, toys, books, ...?
20 comments :
I love what you have done with the shells, Gloria! Great idea!
I still have the Raggedy Ann doll my Mom made for me when I was a young girl, albeit she is a lot more "raggedy" now! But I still love her ...
What you did here is fantastic! This is a great idea. There are a lot of shells that I pick up because of the texture the the color is just eh. Using a shell as a canvas is a wonderful idea. Funny, because I paint rocks but never thought to paint a shell! LOL
I still have quite a few stuffed animals from my childhood and lot and lots of books. They are in the attic, but I cannot part with them.
What a great idea, can't wait to see or hear if you like how they turn out.
I love stuff animals and still do. And Precious Moments. Those are the only things I tend to 'hoard' a little.
A little metallic elegance if great for seashells!
Since I was a child whenever we traveled anywhere, I always collected an interesting stone...I still do today.
That shell looks so pretty! I love how the gold brings out the lines in the shell! Great idea! I can't wait to see your finished canvas! I have several items from my childhood, like my first teddy bear ;o)
Metallic paint can really transform -- the shell looks like something a mermaid princess would own :) I still have all my childhood collections -- shells, books and TOYS!!!
So pretty Gloria! What a perfect way to give new life to your childhood memories. For some reason I never get attached to things. My parents donated all my old stuff. Although my mom did save my Barbies and her clothes in hopes of granddaughters (She now has 2)! They do play with them. :)
I never would have thought about painting shells and this is so pretty. Thank you for sharing....
It looks pretty...probably a good way to prolong the life of your memento! Thanks for sharing it at the Shady Porch!
I've done the same thing. Big ole shiny gold conch shell in my bathroom. Just something different. Glad to find your blog. I love mixed media too. I just make it up as I go.
I have some well worn books from those early days. I stacked them under a lamp on my dresser. Brings back good memories.
Keeping your doll and memories is keeping your mom close. I love that.
A little hoard, that made me smile. Enjoy!
I think the first stone I saved looked like someone's head, lol. I still have that with more picked up from here and there. It feels good to think about the where and when of each relic.
Teddy! Mine was passed down to me and it's long gone, sad eyes. Thanks for reminding me, I can see him now.
Mermaid accessories, love it. Enjoy all your collections, sounds like they are very special.
That makes packing to relocate much easier. I have learned some things need to go, and some follow me forever. Have been decluttering for a bit and it's nice. Your nieces get to enjoy the retro doll.
Thanks- yes, try painting unexpected things and it feels normal, sometimes. lol.
Thanks, it's a bit like meditating, too. Make one thing pretty over and over...
Ooh, conch shell awesome. Sometimes I have to restrain myself in the mix, but keep working at it. Thanks for clicking over.
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