Kate’s artwork is inspired by vintage Victorian era Sailors’ Valentines. Although it was originally thought that sailors created the works of art themselves (how romantic!), it was eventually revealed that women working in a cottage industry, primarily in the port town of Barbados, were the unsung artisans. A sailor would purchase a “valentine” for a special someone he hoped was waiting for him at home. Today, traditional Sailors’ Valentines, whether vintage or contemporary, cost in the thousands due to the intricate, painstaking and time-intensive crafting involved. Kate’s artwork is created with a view to pricing that is more reasonable to the working class.

Each of Kate’s creations is unique, thoughtfully and lovingly crafted by hand until the finished product brings a smile to her face and peace and joy to her heart. Although she frequents Cape Cod beaches, the vast majority of the shells used to create her art are bought, not found. Shells become flower petals, with centers of tiny shells or seeds. Stems are dentalium “tusks” and leaves are dyed gar fish scales. “Grass” is crafted from sea urchin spines. Kate strives to keep her creations as organic as possible.

Just as the sailor’s gift was intended to warm the heart of his sweetheart, Kate’s intent is to bring a smile and a sense of calm to the viewer. Although Kate is not a trained artist (she is a wife, mother, grandmother and retired school psychologist), she considers her creations works of art and heart. Whether you choose to gift yourself or a special other, she hopes that her creation will spread joy, peace and inspiration.